Visakhapatnam - Araku Passenger Train Service Likely to Be Restored: MP Thanuja Rani

Araku MP Dr. Gumm Thanuja Rani said steps would be taken to restore the passenger train service between Visakhapatnam and Araku, which has been disrupted due to problems on the KK railway line.

During her visit to Parvathipuram district, the MP was approached by representatives of the Borra Tribal Taxi Union, Araku Vayupautra Motor Union and Auto Union. The representatives submitted a memorandum seeking the restoration of the passenger train service, citing the impact of the disruption on tourism and local livelihoods.

According to the union representatives, the suspension of train services has resulted in a sharp decline in tourist arrivals to Araku and Borra. The reduction in visitor numbers has had a direct impact on people and businesses that depend heavily on tourism for their income.

Taxi and auto owners, drivers, tourist guides, hotel operators and small traders have reportedly been facing difficulties as tourist activity has slowed. The representatives told the MP that the railway service is particularly important for the region because a large section of visitors relies on rail connectivity to reach the popular tourist destinations.

The union leaders said that while restoring train operations up to Kirandul may not be immediately possible because of the existing railway-related issues, the authorities should at least consider restarting the passenger service between Visakhapatnam and Araku.

They argued that restoring the service would improve accessibility to the hill region and help bring more tourists to Araku and Borra. Increased tourist movement, they said, would provide much-needed support to families whose incomes depend on transportation, hospitality, tourism services and small businesses.

The representatives also stressed that the issue goes beyond transportation, as the suspension has affected the broader local tourism economy. A revival in tourist footfall could help drivers, guides, hotel workers, traders and other service providers recover their earnings.

MP Gumm Thanuja Rani listened to the concerns and responded positively to the representation. She assured the union leaders that she would take up the matter with senior railway officials and work towards finding a solution.

The unions expressed hope that discussions with railway authorities would result in the early restoration of the passenger service, providing a boost to tourism and livelihoods across the Araku and Borra regions.