The Railways had initially proposed the Central Stadium for the main event, as it is a secured site previously cleared by the Special Protection Group (SPG). However, the State Government has expressed its inability to allot the stadium due to ongoing rehearsals and preparations for the Republic Day parade on January 26.
According to railway officials, holding the ceremony at the Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station—as was done briefly for the Vande Bharat launch in 2023—is also not feasible this time because of massive redevelopment work currently underway at the station.
Apart from the official railway function, PM Modi will also kick-start the NDA’s poll campaign by unveiling a ‘development blueprint’ for the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation. The State BJP is currently eyeing Putharikandam Maidan for this party event, pending a green signal from the PM’s security team. There is a strong possibility that the official railway ceremony might also be clubbed at the same venue to avoid further logistical delays. (TNIE)
For more details: Navamalayalam.com