Railways in Ernakulam are advancing plans to construct elevated skywalks to link three major railway stations with the Kochi Metro, aiming to improve multimodal connectivity for train passengers. The projects are proposed at Tripunithura, Ernakulam Junction (South) and Ernakulam Town (North) and are intended to provide direct access between railway platforms and Metro facilities. Authorities have shortlisted the project for approval by the Railway Board and a detailed project report is being prepared for submission. The initiative forms part of ongoing station redevelopment efforts in the division. Demand for skywalk connectivity at Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam Town was raised during the Divisional Railway Users' Consultative Committee meeting held in Thiruvananthapuram on 23 July. Railway officials assured passenger representatives that the skywalks and other passenger amenities would be developed as part of the redevelopment works. The Railways also plans a covered walkway at Ernakulam South station connecting the ticket counter to the main entrance to shield commuters from heavy rain and heat. The measure is expected to ease daily movement for those carrying luggage and for older passengers. Passenger representatives urged the Railways to expedite extension of all six platforms at Ernakulam Junction because, except for Platform one, the remaining platforms cannot currently accommodate 24-coach trains. This limitation has led some long-distance services to halt at outer signals and contributed to operational delays. Railway authorities reported that extension work on Platform two is under way and that expansion for Platform three and Platform four will begin shortly. Representatives also sought installation of escalators and lifts on all platforms to improve accessibility for senior citizens, pregnant women and passengers with disabilities. Other requests included a daily passenger train between Kottayam and Ernakulam Junction during the three pm to four pm slot and a direct Ernakulam-Puducherry service to benefit students and travellers. The committee brings officials and representatives together to discuss service and facility improvements.