The Ministry of Railways has approved the introduction of a new weekly express service between Visakhapatnam and Kollam. According to the Vijayawada Division of South Central Railway, Train No. 18501/18502 Visakhapatnam–Kollam–Visakhapatnam Weekly Express will be operated by regularising the existing special train service numbered 08539/08540.

As per the schedule, Train No. 18501 Visakhapatnam–Kollam Weekly Express will run every Tuesday starting from 12 May 2026. In the return direction, Train No. 18502 Kollam–Visakhapatnam Weekly Express will operate every Wednesday from 13 May 2026 onwards.

During its journey, the train will halt at Duvvada, Samalkot, Rajahmundry, Tadepalligudem, Eluru, Vijayawada, Tenali, Ongole, Nellore, Gudur, Renigunta, Katpadi, Jolarpettai, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Podanur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam Town, Kottayam, Tiruvalla and Kayamkulam stations.

According to the announced coach composition, the train will consist of One-2A, Five-3A, Six-Sleeper and Four-General coaches. The introduction of this regular weekly service is expected to improve rail connectivity and provide greater convenience for passengers travelling between Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

Passengers are requested to visit the Indian Railways website (www.enquiry.indianrail.gov.in), dial 139, or download the NTES app for detailed arrival and departure timings at the respective stations. 

Source/SCR