PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, June 4: In a move to enhance regional connectivity and provide improved travel convenience to daily commuters and passengers in Jharkhand and adjoining areas, South Eastern Railway (SER) has announced the introduction of two new MEMU (Mainline Electric Multiple Unit) passenger train services.
These trains will commence operations from June 6 and are expected to significantly benefit local travellers, especially office-goers, students, and small traders.
68137/68138 Tatanagar–Chaibasa–Tatanagar MEMU
68137 Tatanagar–Chaibasa MEMU will depart from Tatanagar at 8:55 pm and arrive at Chaibasa at 11:00 pm.
In the return direction, 68138 Chaibasa–Tatanagar MEMU will leave Chaibasa at 3:20 am and reach Tatanagar at 5:45 am.
Stoppages: Adityapur, Gamharia, Birbans, Sini, Mahalimarup, Rajkharswan, and Pandrasali.
This service is expected to benefit commuters who travel between the industrial hub of Tatanagar and Chaibasa, a key town in West Singhbhum district. The early morning return will be especially useful for those who need to reach Tatanagar for work.
68128/68127 Tatanagar–Chakulia–Tatanagar MEMU
68128 Tatanagar–Chakulia MEMU will depart from Tatanagar at 11am and reach Chakulia at 12:45 pm.
In the return direction, 68127 Chakulia–Tatanagar MEMU will leave Chakulia at 3:00 pm and arrive at Tatanagar at 5:00 pm.
Stoppages: Salgajhari, Govindpur, Asanboni, Rakha Mines, Galudih, Ghatsila, Chirugoda, Dalbhumgarh, and Kokpara.
This service will cater to the needs of passengers traveling between Tatanagar and towns along the East Singhbhum route, including Ghatsila, a popular tourist and cultural destination.
Background and Significance
The introduction of these MEMU trains comes as part of SER’s ongoing efforts to improve short-distance rail services within its jurisdiction.
MEMU trains are particularly suited for regional passenger traffic, offering high acceleration and quick turnaround times. These services also help decongest longer-distance express trains, providing a comfortable and affordable alternative for local travellers.
Local residents and regular passengers have welcomed the decision, stating that the trains will improve last-mile connectivity and support the economic activities of the region.
Passengers are advised to check the detailed timings and platform information on the official Indian Railways portal or through authorized railway inquiry systems before planning their journey.