THIRUVANANTHAPURAM : Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday said the Centre’s in-principle approval for the semi high-speed rail project – Silver Line - between Thiruvananthapuram and Kasaragod, will help bolster development in the state.
Two new rail lines which allow speeds up to 200 kmph will be constructed along the new corridor. Feasibility studies conducted earlier had indicated potential for successful implementation of the high-speed service. Kerala Rail Development Corporation Ltd)KRFCL), a joint venture established by Railways and state govt, will carry out the project.
The state cabinet had lend its nod for the project before forwarding it for Railway Ministry approval, The govt will now proceed to mobilise funds for the new network, the minister said.
The semi-high-speed rail corridor connecting Thiruvananthapuram to Kasaragod in four hours, is envisioned as an eco-friendly project. 532 km long high-speed tracks shall be built between Kochuveli station and Kasaragod.
Between Thiruvananthapuram and Thrissur, the proposed new line will be constructed away from the existing tracks while those between Thrissur and Kasaragod will run parallel to the existing rail lines. Subways shall be built under new lines every 500 meters. The corridor is expected to generate 50,000 job opportunities. 11,000 people will secure employment on commissioning of the project, Pinarayi said.
