Kochi: E Sreedharan, an eminent engineer and BJP leader, voiced his thoughts over the lack of response from the Kerala government regarding his proposal for a ‘high-speed rail system’ as an alternative to the LDF government’s ambitious SilverLine project.
Talking to media, E Sreedharan said that he had submitted a written proposal to KV Thomas, the Kerala government’s representative in New Delhi. It was reported that KV Thomas had met with Metroman Sreedharan, with the knowledge of the Kerala Chief Minister, to discuss the proposed rail system. Sreedharan stated, “Thomas had assured me that he would pass on the proposal to the state government. However, neither Thomas nor the government has made any statement regarding the project thus far.”
Expressing his lack of confidence in the technical capabilities of K-Rail project, Sreedharan made it clear that he has no intention of collaborating with the firm to develop his envisioned high-speed rail system. He further emphasized that his proposed railway system would not pose a financial burden on the state government.
The Metroman expressed optimism regarding the implementation of his rail project with minimal public resistance and reduced land acquisition. He mentioned that both elevated and underground rail lines are viable options for the new rail network. For the elevated rail line, only a 20-meter width of land would need to be acquired, which can be reclaimed by owners for agricultural purposes after the completion of the project. However, the construction of tall buildings and planting of large trees cannot be permitted on this land. Alternatively, if an underground rail line is chosen, there would be no need for land acquisition. Sreedharan suggested that the project could be completed following the models of the Delhi Metro or the Konkan Railway.
Sreedharan emphasized that only 20% of the land acquired for the SilverLine project would be necessary for the high-speed rail project. He asserted that if the state government proceeds with the project with support from the central government, there would be no financial burden on the Kerala government. Sreedharan also expressed his willingness to meet the Chief Minister if the government shows interest. He repeated that the SilverLine project was not viable in Kerala due to public opposition regarding land acquisition.
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