Kochi: Renowned infrastructure expert and “Metro Man” E. Sreedharan has once again called for the immediate approval of Kerala’s proposed high-speed rail corridor, urging both the Centre and the State government to move forward without further delays. He has also recommended that the project’s planning and execution be entrusted to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), citing its proven track record in delivering large-scale transportation projects efficiently.
Sreedharan believes the proposed high-speed rail corridor could transform transportation across Kerala by drastically reducing travel times between major cities while easing pressure on the state’s congested highways and existing railway network. According to the proposal, trains could operate at speeds of up to 200 kmph, enabling passengers to travel between Thiruvananthapuram and Kannur in just over three hours.
The veteran engineer has argued that Kerala’s long-term economic growth and urban development require a modern, high-capacity transport system capable of meeting future demand. He maintains that the high-speed rail project would not only improve connectivity but also support tourism, trade and investment across the state.
Sreedharan has specifically proposed that DMRC prepare the Detailed Project Report (DPR) and oversee the project’s implementation. He has stated that the agency possesses extensive expertise gained from successfully executing projects such as the Delhi Metro and contributing to the development of the Kochi Metro. He believes DMRC can complete the DPR within a relatively short period and ensure professional project management.
The proposed corridor is expected to cover approximately 465 kilometres and include around 20 stations connecting key urban centres, airports and commercial hubs across Kerala. The revised project estimate prepared under Sreedharan’s guidance places the cost at around ₹54,000 crore, significantly lower than some earlier proposals for similar rail projects in the state.
According to Sreedharan, the project would primarily use elevated tracks, reducing land acquisition requirements and minimizing environmental impact. He has also suggested integrating solar energy infrastructure along the corridor to support sustainable operations and lower long-term energy costs.
The former DMRC chief has repeatedly expressed reservations about alternative rapid transit proposals, arguing that a dedicated high-speed rail corridor would provide better statewide connectivity and greater long-term benefits. He maintains that Kerala’s unique geography and high population density require a transport solution capable of moving large numbers of passengers quickly across the length of the state.
Sreedharan remains optimistic about the project’s future and has indicated that discussions with railway authorities have been encouraging. He has expressed confidence that once a comprehensive DPR is completed and evaluated, the proposal will receive serious consideration from policymakers.
Infrastructure experts note that Kerala’s growing urbanization and increasing transportation demand have intensified the debate over major rail projects. Supporters of high-speed rail argue that the state requires a transformative transportation network to sustain future growth, while critics continue to raise questions regarding costs, implementation challenges and alternative transit models.
As discussions continue, Sreedharan’s latest appeal adds fresh momentum to the conversation surrounding Kerala’s transportation future. With decades of experience in landmark projects such as the Konkan Railway, Delhi Metro and Kochi Metro, his endorsement is likely to keep the high-speed rail proposal firmly in the spotlight in the months ahead.
