The Shoranur–Cochin Harbour section is strategic and the lifeline of Kerala economy that connects the state to other parts of India.

It is central to the provision of fast, long-distance Intercity and Express passenger services between Kerala and other cities of India.

Rama Varma, known as Rajarshi, the Maharaja of Cochin (1895–1914) was instrumental in establishing the Shoranur Junction–Cochin Harbour Terminus railway line.

Records at the archives reveal that the Maharaja had a prolonged, detailed correspondence with the Resident of the British Empire since 1862 on the ways and means to establish the railway line.

About 18 miles (29 km) of the railway line, between Angamaly and Edappally, passed through the erstwhile Travancore state.

[3][5] The contract having expired on 31 December 1907, The Madras Guaranteed Railway Co. was purchased by the Secretary of State for India.

After the arrival of Shoranur – Cochin Harbour section, backwaters lost the glory and majority of the goods were carried by the trains.

Tiles, timber and wooden packing boxes were the main goods which were transported to other parts of India through Shoranur – Cochin Harbour section, from Ollur railway station.