State to initiate land acquisition proceedings for Sabari rail project soon

Following the Cabinet decision to raise the State’s 50% share of the cost of the Angamaly–Sabari railway project through the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB), the State government will soon initiate the land acquisition proceedings for the project.

A government order issued by the Transport department with regard to funding and subsequent land acquisition has said the revenue authorities will initiate and expedite the land acquisition proceedings in accordance with the approved alignment.

The State government will also inform the Ministry of Railways of its decision according sanction for bearing its share of ₹1,900 crore, inclusive of land acquisition cost, with the financial assistance from KIIFB.

The Angamaly–Sabari railway project, first proposed in Railway Budget 1997–98, is a major infrastructure initiative envisaged for the comprehensive development of the eastern parts of the State and for accelerating the economic upliftment of the eastern hilly regions of Ernakulam, Idukki, and Pathanamthitta districts.

The proposed 110-km railway line is also intended to provide safe and convenient connectivity for Sabarimala pilgrims, and to enhance regional accessibility and economic growth by linking Angamaly on NH 66 with major towns such as Perumbavoor, Muvattupuzha, Thodupuzha, and Pala.

In the initial phase, land acquisition for an 8-km stretch was completed and approximately 90% of the construction work of the 7-km stretch between Angamaly and Kalady had been completed earlier. However, land acquisition notifications issued for the remaining stretches lapsed, necessitating de novo proceedings.

Owing to difficulties in land acquisition and inadequate allocation of funds in the Railway Budget, the project has remained stalled for more than 25 years. The project cost which was estimated at ₹2,815 crore has escalated to ₹3,800.9 crore. As per the understanding between State and Railways, the State has to bear 50% of the revised cost.

With the Ministry of Railways de-freezing the project, the State government can initiate land acquisition proceedings once the Railways share the approved alignment and detailed project maps with the State authorities.