Kerala’s hopes for new trains and infrastructure projects were dashed once again as the details of this year’s Railway Budget were released. The state expressed its disappointment after it was revealed that no major projects, such as new train services or infrastructure upgrades, were included. While the state’s allocation has seen a marginal increase, the budget failed to address several long-pending demands from the region.
In This Article:
Modest Increase in Kerala’s Railway Allocation
• The Railway Ministry allocated ₹3,042 crore to Kerala for the financial year, which is an increase of ₹31 crore compared to the previous year.
• Approximately 80% of this allocation is directed toward the development of railway stations.
• Despite the increase, there are no new provisions for new train services or major infrastructure improvements.
Long-Awaited Projects Left Out
Kerala had been eagerly awaiting announcements regarding several key railway projects that have been in the pipeline for years. Notably missing from the budget were:
• Angamaly-Erumeli Sabari Line: A vital link for the Sabarimala pilgrimage.
• Ernakulam-Shornur, Shoranur-Coimbatore, and Shoranur-Mangalapuram Third Line: These projects were expected to reduce congestion and improve connectivity.
• Ambalapuzha-Alappuzha-Ernakulam Line Doubling: To accommodate the growing passenger demand in the Alappuzha region.
• MEMU Service in the Palakkad Division: A project for better local commuter services in Kerala.
Minister’s Comments and Future Expectations
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw acknowledged the increase in Kerala’s railway budget allocation, highlighting the growth from ₹372 crore in the 2009-14 period to ₹3,042 crore this year. However, much of the allocation is earmarked for station development rather than new services or major infrastructure.
• The minister also indicated that new Vande Bharat services might be introduced in the state in the future, though specific details were not provided.
• There was no clear mention of timelines for projects like the Sabari Path or MEMU service.
Ongoing Railway Projects in Kerala
Despite the lack of new announcements, several ongoing projects continue to shape Kerala’s railway infrastructure, including:
• 419 km of new railway lines being constructed under a ₹12,350 crore project.
• 35 Amrit Bharat Station projects aimed at modernizing stations across the state.
• Kavach safety system being implemented over 531 km of railway track.
• 100% electrification of the network, a significant improvement from just 10% in 2009-14.
• Two Vande Bharat trains already operating in Kerala, with expectations of more in the future.
Despite these ongoing projects, many in Kerala feel that the overall pace of development does not match the state’s growing transportation needs.
