Ernakulam diesel loco shed to get ₹46-lakh upgrade

Kochi: The uncertainty surrounding the future of the Diesel loco shed in Ernakulam has finally been laid to rest. The Railways has floated an e-tender worth ₹45.68 lakh for enhancing infrastructure and establishing electrical facilities for testing electric locomotives at the shed. This move marks a significant step toward upgrading the facility located adjacent to the Ernakulam Junction South Railway Station. As the last major Southern Railway establishment in Kerala and the only loco shed in the state, the facility had faced growing concerns over possible closure, triggering protests from railway employee unions.

The new tender not only confirms the shed’s continuation but also lays the groundwork for its revival. The facility currently employs approximately 250 people and plays a crucial role in maintaining various locomotives, including the Vande Bharat Express. The proposed upgrades include a new heavy repair shed, service room, battery room, and examination shed, all designed to strengthen infrastructure and operational capacity. Ernakulam’s workforce has the technical expertise to handle both diesel and electric locomotives, bolstering the case for investment in the facility.

Currently, the shed operates with three bays for locomotive repair. Experts have recommended increasing the number of bays to accommodate more engines. At present, the facility does not house any locomotives of its own. Converting it into a home shed, taking full responsibility for locomotives, is being seen as the logical next step, with growing calls for the Railways to act.

While some had proposed dismantling the shed to make way for platform expansion at Ernakulam Junction, officials have pointed out that there is adequate space to undertake both projects.

Shutting down the only loco shed in Kerala would permanently deprive railway maintenance staff working in other states of the opportunity to return and work in their home state.