Panaji, April 18, 2026:
South Goa Member of Parliament Captain Viriato Fernandes has written to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw requesting the introduction of a special summer train between Vasco-da-Gama and Velankanni to cater to the growing number of pilgrims from Goa.

In his letter dated April 18, Fernandes highlighted that the existing weekly train (No. 17315) from Vasco to Velankanni is insufficient to meet the surge in demand, especially during the summer holidays in May. He noted that the train, which departs Vasco in the morning and reaches Velankanni the next day after a 27–28 hour journey, often runs at full capacity, leaving many devotees without confirmed seats.

Citing the increasing number of pilgrims travelling to the Velankanni shrine during this period, the MP urged the Railways to sanction an additional weekly service throughout May. He proposed that the special train depart Vasco on Wednesdays at a similar time as the existing service, reach Velankanni on Thursday, halt overnight, and return on Friday to arrive back in Vasco by Saturday.

Fernandes also recommended that at least 75% of the berths on the additional train be reserved for passengers boarding from Goa and travelling directly to Velankanni, ensuring priority for local devotees.

Describing the demand as a “pressing spiritual requirement,” the MP expressed hope that the Railways would respond positively and facilitate smoother travel for Goan pilgrims during the peak season.