Kerala’s Angamaly–Sabari Rail Project Resumes After Suspension Lifted

The Central Government has lifted the suspension on the Angamaly–Sabarimala railway project, confirming that work can now resume. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced this during a meeting with Kerala MPs, including Benny Behanan, Anto Antony, Dean Kuriakose, M K Raghavan, and V K Sreekandan.

The project is expected to regain momentum, with assurances of cooperation from the Centre and plans for a team to review preparations. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated the state is prepared to contribute 30 per cent of the land acquisition costs, and the Minister indicated that if Kerala starts land acquisition with 50 per cent of the project’s cost, work can begin.

The first phase, from Angamaly to Thodupuzha, covering 58 kilometres, is allocated Rs 600 crore for land acquisition, which has already undergone a social impact assessment. The second phase will go from Thodupuzha to Ramapuram, a further 12 kilometres, with land costs similarly borne by the state.

The project's total estimated cost is now Rs 3,801 crore, with Rs 120 crore earmarked for land acquisition—funds the state is willing to cover. Previously, there were technical concerns about proceeding without the official lifting of the suspension, but these issues have now been resolved.

Members of Parliament presented a memorandum emphasising that no tripartite agreement has yet been signed and that the land acquisition costs should not be considered part of Kerala’s borrowing limits. The Union Minister clarified that approval from the Ministry of Finance is required for such an agreement involving the Kerala Government, Ministry of Railways, and the Reserve Bank of India.

Southern Railway has approved the revival of the project in principle, and the Kerala Chief Minister met with the Railway Minister in New Delhi. Earlier delays stemming from the suspension have now been addressed, clearing the way for progress.