New Delhi: In a major boost to rail infrastructure in Kerala, Indian Railways has sanctioned the doubling of the 21.10-km Thuravoor–Mararikulam section at a cost of Rs 450.59 crore, as part of a broader Rs 871 crore infrastructure package cleared across multiple zones.

The doubling work falls under Southern Railway and covers a crucial stretch of the Ernakulam–Alappuzha–Kayankulam corridor — one of the busiest rail routes in Kerala.

The latest approvals also include maintenance upgrades in Rajasthan and a new bypass line in West Bengal.

Major capacity boost for Kerala

The Thuravoor–Mararikulam stretch currently handles heavy passenger traffic along with freight, including cargo linked to Cochin Port. With utilisation levels already high, the doubling project is expected to ease congestion and improve punctuality.

Once completed, the upgraded section will allow the operation of nine additional passenger trains per day in each direction. Freight capacity is projected to increase by around 2.88 million tonnes annually.

Railway estimates indicate that the project will reduce detention of freight trains by 17 to 19 minutes and cut passenger train delays by 12 to 15 minutes, remarkably improving operational efficiency along the corridor.

The improved connectivity is also expected to strengthen logistics linked to port operations and support regional economic activity.

Maintenance upgrades in Rajasthan

Apart from Kerala, Indian Railways has sanctioned Phase I development of a coach maintenance facility at Shri Ganganagar in Rajasthan at a cost of Rs 174.26 crore. The project includes new washing lines, stabling lines, pit lines, a wheel lathe line and modern equipment to handle LHB and Vande Bharat rakes.

Additionally, Phase II augmentation of coaching facilities at Lalgarh has been approved at Rs 139.68 crore to support expanding Vande Bharat services in the Bikaner region. The works include new washing lines, a service building, retractable OHE systems and Automatic Coach Washing Plants.

Bypass line in West Bengal

To decongest rail operations in the Asansol region, a 4.75-km Kalipahari Bypass Line under Eastern Railway has been cleared at a cost of Rs 107.10 crore. The bypass will eliminate engine reversals at Asansol Yard, saving substantial time for both freight and passenger trains.

Focus on modernisation and decongestion

With the latest approvals, Indian Railways continues its infrastructure expansion drive aimed at increasing capacity, modernising maintenance ecosystems and improving corridor efficiency. For Kerala, the Thuravoor–Mararikulam doubling marks a crucial step towards easing congestion on one of the state’s most vital rail routes and enabling future service expansion.

ANI