Railway – New DEMU service to connect Kanigiri with Guntur soon
Railway – Residents of the Kanigiri region are set to benefit from improved rail access as South Central Railway prepares to introduce a new passenger service linking the area with Guntur Junction. The long-awaited development is expected to become operational within days, marking a significant step in strengthening transportation infrastructure along the Nadikudi–Srikalahasti railway corridor.
New passenger service planned on key route
According to railway officials, a Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) train will operate on the 169-kilometre stretch between Guntur and the newly built Kanigiri railway station. The service is scheduled to run six days a week, offering a reliable travel option for daily commuters and residents in smaller towns along the route.
The proposed train will make 17 stops and is expected to complete the journey in approximately three hours and twenty-five minutes. Authorities have already conducted multiple trial runs on the track, confirming that the route meets operational requirements. Final preparations are underway before the service is formally launched.
Tentative schedule and route details
As per the preliminary timetable, the train will depart from Guntur Junction early in the morning at around 7:00 am and arrive in Kanigiri by 10:25 am. Key halts along the route are expected at Phirangipuram, Narasaraopeta, Vinukonda, Darsi, and Podili stations, among others.
After a short stop at Kanigiri, the train will begin its return journey on the same day, heading back to Guntur via the identical route. Railway authorities have indicated that exact timings and the complete list of stops will be officially announced soon.
Years of local demand finally addressed
The introduction of this railway service follows sustained efforts by local representatives and community leaders. Ongole Member of Parliament Magunta Srinivasulu Reddy, along with Kanigiri MLA Ugra Narasimha Reddy, repeatedly raised the issue with railway authorities and government bodies.
They highlighted the lack of direct rail connectivity in the region and emphasized how such a service could improve access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Their appeals were supported by district officials, who also submitted formal requests to both central and state authorities.
Infrastructure completed for smooth operations
To support the new service, necessary infrastructure has already been put in place at Kanigiri. The railway station now includes essential facilities such as platforms, ticket counters, waiting halls for passengers, drinking water arrangements, and residential quarters for staff.
Officials confirmed that these developments were completed following feasibility studies and technical assessments conducted by the railway ministry and South Central Railway. The readiness of these facilities has played a key role in accelerating the launch of the passenger train.
Improved connectivity expected to aid regional growth
The upcoming DEMU service is expected to ease travel for residents across multiple towns and villages along the route. With better connectivity to Guntur, passengers will gain improved access to major markets, educational institutions, and administrative centers.
Local stakeholders believe the service will also encourage economic activity in the region by making transportation more efficient for both people and goods. The move reflects broader efforts to enhance regional rail networks and address long-standing infrastructure gaps in semi-urban and rural areas.