IRCTC's executive lounge soon at South station

Kochi: The Southern Railways would set up fully air-conditioned executive lounges at Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam railway stations to facilitate short duration stay for high-end travelers. “The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has floated tenders for the same. The one launched at New Delhi station turned out to be a success,” a senior IRCTC official said.

“A lot of tourists and business travelers could avoid staying at hotels for temporary stay or waiting for trains. The services include food, toilets and urinals, wash and change, recliners, TV, Wi-Fi, soft beverages, train information display and announcement among others. There will be fees based on slabs which are yet to be decided for the lounges here,” he said.

Seats in the executive lounge can be booked in advance through online only -- www.irctc.co.in. However, the passengers should carry one photo identity proof like PAN card, voter ID, passport, Aadhar card and driving license among others besides a valid train ticket either reserved or unreserved. While the lounge will be coming up at the old booking office area at Thiruvananthapuram, the one at Ernakulam would be set up at the northern end of the Platform No 1.