Locals want Vasco-Kulem passenger trains resumed

VASCO With the State further opening up as part of the nationwide Unlock 4.0, residents in the port town have demanded resumption of the passenger trains, especially the Vasco-Kulem passenger train, from the Vasco railway station.While they have been demanding the resumption of interstate trains, the growing demand has been for the Vasco-Kulem passenger train, which had been in regular service for a long time.Responding to their requests, the South Western Railways (SWR) said the proposal can be placed before the Railway Board for coordination with the State government.“The train Vasco-Kulem passenger train has been a lifeline for people arriving to work in Vasco, while it was also a boon for students arriving to Vasco. Now as the State has opened up, the industries and many offices have opened up as well,” said a resident Ramesh Parab.“Many people travel to Vasco and this is a train service which brings people from remote areas to Vasco. The Railways must restart passenger trains, beginning with this local Vasco-Kulem passenger train."Another resident, Santosh Naik, said there were no bus routes connecting the stations along the Vasco-Kulem route."People residing in areas near Kulem have to change multiple buses before reaching Vasco. The State government is also planning to restart schools and many students arrive from locations along the Vasco-Kulem route to study in schools in different parts of Vasco. This Vasco-Kulem train will surely help students, while economic activity will also begin forthe Vasco railway station," said Naik.Karim Shaikh, another resident, said trains were the most economical mode of transportation."Passenger trains between Vasco and Kulem should commence as it will transport many officegoers quickly and at a cheaper cost.”“While there may be time to restart interstate passenger trains, the Railways can at least start local train services first," said Shaikh.When contacted, SWR PRO (Hubbali division) Pranesh K N said people could write to the SWR seeking a resumption of the Vasco-Kulem passenger train, after which further decision could be initiated."After the lockdown, trains are being introduced in a phased manner. In June, around 200 special trains were introduced across India and since September 12, an additional 86 special trains have been introduced.”“There has been a demand to resume the Vasco-Kulem passenger train and we can forward the request to the Railways and we will take it up with the Railway Doard and process it after coordinating with the State government," said Pranesh.