The terminal is planned to include six platforms, an increase from the earlier estimate of four platforms. The facility will also have three stabling lines for parking trains and three pit lines for coach inspection and cleaning. Notably, two pit lines will be dedicated to the maintenance of Vande Bharat trains.
Currently, Ernakulam South station has six platforms and Ernakulam North has two, both undergoing redevelopment. Due to space limitations at these stations, no additional platforms can be added there. In contrast, the Ponnurunni yard offers ample space, with the potential to accommodate up to 15 platforms in the future.
The Railways owns 110 acres in the Ponnurunni area adjacent to Kochi, presently used for coach maintenance and goods train inspections. The new terminal aims to ease platform congestion, reduce train delays outside stations, and enable the introduction of more train services to Kerala.
Integration with Kochi Metro, Water Metro, and Vytilla Mobility Hub will help establish the terminal as a key multimodal transport hub. Upon approval, the terminal is expected to be operational within three years.
