The Kerala government’s ambitious K-Rail semi-high-speed rail project is back on the agenda, with the Centre signaling that the project could proceed if the state addresses its technical and environmental design issues. The announcement offers renewed hope for the multi-crore project, which has faced delays due to public opposition, environmental concerns, and a lack of federal approval.
Centre Urges Kerala to Address Technical and Environmental Concerns
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, speaking to reporters, shared that he had recently discussed the matter with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in New Delhi. “I requested the CM to address any technical and environmental issues in the K-Rail design as quickly as possible, so we can move forward,” Vaishnaw said, adding that the Centre’s support aligns with its commitment to cooperative federalism.
The proposed K-Rail project, also known as the SilverLine, aims to create a 530-kilometer semi-high-speed rail corridor from Thiruvananthapuram to Kasaragod. Once operational, the SilverLine could reduce travel time along Kerala’s north-south corridor to less than four hours—down from the current 12-14 hours—by connecting major cities across the state. The project is a joint venture between the Kerala government and the Ministry of Railways.
While supporters highlight the project’s potential to transform state-wide transit, the SilverLine has met with significant resistance from opposition parties, including the Congress and the BJP in Kerala, who argue it could displace numerous families along the planned route. Concerns have also been raised over the potential environmental impact.
In addition to the K-Rail, Minister Vaishnaw confirmed that the Centre is committed to moving forward with the Sabari rail project, which will connect Angamaly and Erumely as per the original alignment. He noted that the Kerala government had recently submitted a letter with specific conditions for this project. “We will soon send a format for Kerala to fill, similar to the process with Maharashtra. Once completed, the Sabari rail project can advance,” he stated.