The detailed project report (DPR) for the track doubling of the Thanjavur-Nagapattinam-Karaikal broad gauge section has been completed, according to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. 

In response to a query from DMK Rajya Sabha member S Kalyanasundaram, the Minister clarified that the survey for doubling the Villupuram-Mayiladuthurai-Thanjavur section had been sanctioned, and the DPR for the Thanjavur-Nagapattinam-Karaikal section (96 km) was now ready. The project’s approval requires consultations with various stakeholders, including the State government, and necessary clearances from NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Finance. The Thanjavur-Karaikal section, currently a single line, serves both passenger and freight trains, including coal transport from Karaikal port. 

A Giri, Secretary of the Thanjavur District Railway Users’ Association, emphasised the need for track doubling to improve connectivity and train services in the region. S Mohan, President of the Nagore Nagapattinam Rail Users’ Association, urged the government to prioritise and allocate funds for the project’s timely completion.