Vizhinjam Port Rail Tunnel Project Enters Execution Phase in Kerala
The highly anticipated railway tunnel project connecting Vizhinjam International Seaport with Balaramapuram railway station is poised to transition into the execution stage, with the construction tender likely to be floated as early as next week. This development marks a significant milestone for Kerala's maritime infrastructure, aimed at enhancing cargo evacuation and boosting regional trade.
Government Approvals and Procedural Progress
According to highly placed sources, the finance department has already granted clearance for the project, and the file is currently undergoing final legal vetting and minor clarifications with the law department. Clearance from the law department is anticipated this week, following which the executing agency, Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd (KRCL), will issue the tender. This step is expected to pave the way for construction to commence in April this year.
A senior state government official confirmed that procedural formalities are nearing completion. "The financial sanction was accorded, and only routine legal scrutiny remains. We expect the law department's clearance shortly. The rail link is crucial for the seamless evacuation of cargo from the port," the official stated, emphasizing the project's importance for operational efficiency.
Project Overview and Strategic Significance
The proposed tunnel is a critical component of the rail connectivity project for the under-construction Vizhinjam International Seaport, which is India's first dedicated deep-water transhipment port. Developed by the Adani Group under a public-private partnership model with the Kerala government, the port is designed to significantly boost the state's maritime trade by attracting large container vessels that currently dock at foreign ports such as Colombo.
The 10-kilometer-long rail corridor, featuring a major underground tunnel stretch, will directly link the port to the national railway network at Balaramapuram railway station. The alignment has been strategically designed to minimize surface disruption in densely populated coastal areas, ensuring minimal impact on local communities.
Land Acquisition and Rehabilitation Efforts
Land acquisition in two of the three affected villages has already been completed, while acquisition in the remaining village is in its final stages and is expected to conclude shortly. Officials have assured that rehabilitation measures are being implemented in strict accordance with statutory norms, addressing concerns of displaced residents and ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
Expected Benefits and Economic Impact
Once operational, the dedicated rail link is projected to yield multiple benefits, including a reduction in heavy container truck traffic on city roads, which will alleviate congestion and improve road safety. Additionally, it is expected to cut logistics costs substantially, enhancing the competitiveness of Vizhinjam Port as a major transhipment hub on the Arabian Sea. This infrastructure upgrade is set to position Kerala as a key player in global maritime trade, fostering economic growth and job creation in the region.
