Kerala's New High-Speed Rail Network to Cut Travel Time to Kannur, Says E Sreedharan

E Sreedharan reveals plans for a high-speed rail network in Kerala, reducing travel time from Thiruvananthapuram to Kannur to 3.15 hours. The project will be funded by state and central governments and is expected to be completed in five years.

Metroman E Sreedharan has indicated that Kerala might soon witness a high-speed rail network. This development is expected to reduce travel time between Thiruvananthapuram and Kannur to just 3 hours and 15 minutes. The Centre is anticipated to make a formal announcement about this project shortly.

An office dedicated to the high-speed rail project is already operational, with preparations for a Detailed Project Report (DPR) set to begin on February 2. Sreedharan, who previously served as the Managing Director of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), shared these updates.

Project Details and Financial Aspects

The proposed rail project aims to replace the state's Silverline initiative. It is projected to be completed within five years, with an estimated cost ranging from Rs 86,000 crore to Rs one lakh crore. The financial burden will be shared by both state and central governments, covering 60% of the expenses, while the remaining funds will be sourced through loans.

Sreedharan explained that 70% of the rail line will be elevated, 20% will run underground, and only 10% will be at ground level. This design significantly reduces land acquisition needs to just one-third of what was required for the Silverline project.

Infrastructure and Future Prospects

Upon completion, surplus land around the rail pillars will be leased for agricultural purposes. The trains are designed with eight coaches, accommodating up to 560 passengers each. They will operate at a top speed of 200 km per hour and make stops at 22 stations along the route.

The high-speed rail line is planned to terminate at Kannur initially. However, there is potential for future extensions to Kasaragod or even Mangaluru if deemed necessary.

This ambitious project promises significant improvements in connectivity within Kerala, offering faster travel options and potentially boosting economic activities along its route.

With inputs from PTI