95-km Theni-Erumeli rail line advances as Kerala’s Sabari project drags on

Kochi, Kerala: While uncertainty and delays continue to surround Kerala’s long-pending Angamaly-Erumeli Sabari railway line, railway development is gaining momentum across the state’s border, with the Railways granting permission to conduct a survey for the proposed Theni-Erumeli line.

The proposed 95-km Theni-Erumeli railway line is expected to serve more than Sabarimala pilgrims. It could also support agricultural and industrial development in the region, making the project particularly significant for Tamil Nadu, which is expected to push for its early completion.

The development comes as Kerala continues to face delays in taking key decisions related to the Angamaly-Erumeli Sabari railway project. The state government is yet to decide on providing funds through the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) or reopening offices for land acquisition.

The Railways has pointed out that Tamil Nadu has generally maintained continuity in railway development regardless of which political party is in power. Kerala, on the other hand, has frequently faced delays in matters such as land acquisition, officials said.

During the previous Kerala government’s tenure, the state had assured the Railways that KIIFB would bear ₹1,900 crore, roughly half of the construction cost of the Angamaly-Erumeli line.

The Railways had also sought the reopening of land acquisition offices for the project. A meeting chaired by the minister handling the railway portfolio had reportedly decided to take steps in this direction. However, the process was stalled with the arrival of the Assembly elections.

Even after the new government assumed office, no final decision has been taken on the Sabari railway file at the Secretariat.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan reportedly told representatives of landowners who met him that a meeting of elected representatives would be convened to discuss the way forward. However, the government first needs to clarify its policy on projects funded through KIIFB, which has raised concerns that the Sabari project could face further delays.

Project stalled for decades

The Sabari railway project has faced repeated changes in position and prolonged delays under successive governments in Kerala. The project was frozen by the Railways in 2019, after years of uncertainty. The decision was subsequently withdrawn following further interventions, and funds for the project have also been earmarked in the Union Budget in recent years.

Despite this, the project has remained unrealised for nearly 25 years. The delay has also affected residents in areas where land was identified and marked for the project.