Erode Junction, the Kongu region's rail crossroads
Erode Junction (station code ED) is the main railway station of Erode in Tamil Nadu and one of the major junctions of the Southern Railway. It belongs to the Salem division and is graded NSG-2. The station is about 3 km from Erode Central Bus Terminus, so most travellers reach it by bus, auto or taxi from the town centre.
History
The station was established in 1862, which makes it one of the older railway stations in Tamil Nadu. During British rule a line from Erode to Nanjangud through Sathyamangalam and Chamarajanagar was proposed to link the town with Bangalore, but it was never built. A 2007 survey looked at a 91.5 km Erode–Palani line.
Why so many trains stop for a while
Erode is one of the few places in India with both a diesel and an electric locomotive shed. Together they house around 350 locomotives, making the depot one of the largest run by Indian Railways:
- Electric loco shed: ISO-certified, home to WAP-4, WAP-7 and WAG-7 locomotives.
- Diesel loco shed: set up in 1962, with WDM-2, WDM-3A, WDP-4D and WDG-4 locomotives.
Because of the sheds, trains passing through Erode Junction often take a longer technical halt for engine changes and maintenance checks, so expect a stop of more than a couple of minutes.
Platforms and upgrades
The station has four side platforms and can handle up to 165 trains. In 2019 it received ISO 14001 environmental certification, and it is one of 73 Tamil Nadu stations chosen for upgrading under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. Erode also has a direct line east towards Tiruchirappalli via Karur, while Coimbatore lies to the west.
Frequently asked questions
What is the station code of Erode Junction?
ED. It is in the Salem division of the Southern Railway.
Why do trains halt longer at Erode Junction?
Erode has large diesel and electric loco sheds, so many trains stop here for engine swaps and checks.
How old is Erode railway station?
It was established in 1862.
For timings of trains calling at ED, use our train schedule page, and track a late train with live running status.