Kerala Government Commits to 50% Funding for Angamaly-Sabarimala Railway Project
In a significant development, the central government has informed the Kerala High Court that the state government will bear 50% of the total cost for the proposed Angamaly-Sabarimala railway line project. This announcement comes after years of uncertainty and delays surrounding the critical infrastructure initiative.
Financial Details and Government Commitments
An affidavit filed on behalf of Southern Railway revealed that the Kerala government, in a communication to the Railway Board, has expressed its willingness to contribute Rs 1,900 crore towards the total project cost of Rs 3,800.90 crore. This amount includes expenses related to land acquisition and will be supported by financial assistance from the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB).
The affidavit was submitted by Southern Railway deputy chief engineer Shabin Asaf in response to a 2019 petition filed by the Sabari Railway Central Action Council, which sought judicial intervention to revive the stalled project. The document emphasized that both the central and state governments have taken concrete steps to expedite proceedings related to the railway line.
High Court Disposes Petition with Clear Directions
Recording these submissions, a bench comprising Chief Justice Soumen Sen and Justice V M Syam Kumar disposed of the petition on Wednesday. The bench issued a clear directive that the project must not be placed in cold storage again and should be completed expeditiously. The petition had been filed by Sabari Railway Central Action Council secretary Jijo Joseph, who had been advocating for the project's revival.
Historical Context and Land Acquisition Challenges
The core issue that had previously placed the Angamaly-Sabarimala railway line project in uncertainty was related to land acquisition. In 2022, the High Court had recorded that the Railway Board decided to keep the project in abeyance after the state government withdrew its earlier decision to share 50% of the cost. This withdrawal was attributed to significant delays in land acquisition and the finalization of the alignment.
However, after prolonged proceedings and extensive discussions over several years, both the central and state governments have now decided to revive the project. The affidavit further stated that, through a communication dated January 27, the Railway Board had directed Southern Railway to share the approved alignment and detailed project report with state authorities. It also noted that the state government has already initiated the land acquisition process, marking a crucial step forward.
Project Significance and Future Implications
The Angamaly-Sabarimala railway line is expected to enhance connectivity to the Sabarimala temple, one of India's most prominent pilgrimage sites, potentially boosting tourism and local economies. The renewed commitment from both levels of government signals a positive shift towards infrastructure development in Kerala, addressing long-standing transportation needs in the region.
With the High Court's directive for expedited completion and the clarified financial arrangements, stakeholders are optimistic that the project will now progress without further delays, benefiting pilgrims and residents alike.
