(a) whether the Government is aware that there is no direct
train from Delhi to Pondicherry;
(b) whether the Government is aware that there is no Express fast train from Chennai to the neighbouring Union Territory of Pondicherry; and
(c) if so, the steps taken by the Government to remedy
the situation?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI R. VELU)
(a) to (c) Yes, Sir. However, 2651/2652 Nizamuddin-Madurai
Tamil Nadu Sampark Kranti Express (bi-weekly) and 2641/2642
Nizamuddin-Kanniyakumari Tirukkural Express (weekly) have been
provided with stoppage at Villupuram which is 38 kms. away
from Pondicherry. 103/104 Passenger is providing direct
convenient service between Chennai Egmore and Pondicherry. The
proposal for introduction of slip coach service between
Chennai Egmore and Pondicherry by Express train is under
examination and action as found feasible and justified will be
taken.