Efforts on to revive Sabari rail project using State’s 50% share, says CM

The Sabari railway line, long proposed to link the town of Sabari in Kerala with the broader Indian rail network, has remained stalled for several years due to funding gaps and land acquisition delays. The line is expected to run through hilly terrain, connecting remote districts to major commercial hubs, thereby reducing travel time for passengers and freight. Supporters argue that the project will open new markets for agricultural produce, improve access to health and education services, and stimulate tourism in the Western Ghats region.

In a recent statement, the chief minister announced that the Kerala government is prepared to release its fifty percent contribution toward the estimated ₹3,800 crore cost, a figure calculated in 2023. He called on the Ministry of Railways to honour its share of the investment, emphasizing that the state cannot bear the entire burden alone. The central government’s portion has been pending for over a year, and officials say that releasing the funds will allow the project to move from the planning stage to actual construction, including finalising the detailed project report and tendering.

If the funding is secured, the Sabari line could begin civil works by early next year, with an expected completion window of five to six years. The improved connectivity is projected to create thousands of jobs during the building phase and later support small businesses that rely on efficient transport. For residents of Kerala’s interior districts, the railway promises a reliable alternative to congested road routes, potentially lowering vehicle operating costs and reducing road accidents. The revival also aligns with the central government's broader push to expand rail infrastructure in underserved regions.