New MEMU Trains in North Malabar Region
GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS
LOK SABHA
UNSTARRED QUESTION NO: 682
ANSWERED ON: 16.09.2025
New MEMU Trains in North Malabar Region
Kumbakudi Sudhakaran
Will the Minister of Railways be pleased to state:-
(a) Whether the Government has received any request to introduce MEMU trains in North Malabar region, particularly between Calicut and Mangalore and if so, the details thereof;
(b) Whether the Government has any plans in this regard;
(c) If so, the details thereof along with the timeline for introducing MEMU services in North Malabar region; and
(d) If not, the reasons thereof?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF RAILWAYS AND COMMERCE & INDUSTRY (SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL)
(a) to (d) Yes, Sir. Requests, including from the Hon’ble Member of Parliament, have been received inter alia regarding introduction of MEMU services between Kozikhode and Mangaluru. Owing to operational constraints, including inadequate infrastructural facilities at Palakkad MEMU car shed, and resource constraints, introduction of MEMU train service between Kozhikode and Mangaluru is not feasible, at present. However, introduction of trains, including MEMU trains, is an ongoing process on Indian Railways subject to operational feasibility, traffic pattern, availability of resources, etc.
Here’s an updated look at recent developments regarding MEMU (Mainline Electric Multiple Unit) trains in the North Malabar region of Kerala, based on the latest public information:
Ongoing and Proposed MEMU Services
1. Shoranur–Nilambur MEMU Expansion Under Trial
- News: Following the electrification of the Shoranur–Nilambur line, a proposal is in progress to introduce both daytime and overnight MEMU services on this route.
- Status: The Palakkad Railway Division has recommended trial operations, with services expected to begin within two months of early 2025.
Current Service Landscape & Constraints
2. MEMU Coverage in Kerala Is Extremely Limited
- Only 12 MEMU trains are currently in operation across the state, despite high passenger demand.
- Availability Issues: Many run only six days a week due to spare-rake shortages, and 3-phase MEMU units remain in short supply.
Expansion Demands & Official Assurance
3. Higher Demand from the Region
- Local MPs have urged the introduction of more Vande Metro and MEMU services to support growing travel needs in the Malabar area.
- Criticism includes insufficient unreserved coaches and lack of overall capacity on congested morning and evening routes.
Broader MEMU Modernization
4. Pan-India MEMU Fleet Expansion
- Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that 100 next-generation MEMU trains (with 16–20 coaches, up from current 8–12) will be manufactured at Kazipet, Telangana.
- These will significantly enhance short- and medium-distance rail capacity, particularly in semi-urban regions.
Summary Table
| Area / Region | Current Status | Recent Updates / Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Shoranur–Nilambur MEMU | Not yet operational | Trial MEMU services expected soon |
| Kerala (state-wide MEMUs) | Only ~12 trains; limited frequency | Awaiting more rakes and service expansion |
| North Malabar Region | Underserved by MEMU services | MP appeals for increased connectivity |
| National MEMU Fleet | Standard units; capacity issues | 100 next-gen MEMUs to be produced |
What Comes Next?
If you’re interested in the exact trial timetable for Shoranur–Nilambur MEMU, updates on rake allocations, or when the new MEMUs will likely hit the tracks, I’d be happy to keep you posted.
Would you like help tracking announcements or checking feasibility studies for your specific corridor?