Ernakulam: Despite depleted coffers, the state government has disbursed Rs 65.65 crore for a project deemed improbable. The Silver Line project, with slim chances of materializing, witnessed substantial expenditures, including Rs 33 crores solely allocated to consulting fees.
In a breakdown of expenses, Rs 79 lakhs were dedicated to environmental studies, Rs 3 crores for surveys, Rs 1 crore for laying survey stones, Rs 75 lakhs for soil testing, Rs 6 crores for public works, and Rs 19 crores for land acquisition. Astonishingly, these funds were spent without securing central approval, disregarding the requisite environmental study and project report for the project.
Initially projected to cost Rs 65,000 crore, the Pinarayi government’s Silver Line project faces a significant setback, especially considering the recent revelation by Southern Railway. The railway authority declared its inability to release 183 hectares of land for the Silver Line project, citing potential hindrances to overall railway development. Moreover, identified locations for Silver Line stations in Kozhikode and Kannur have already been earmarked for alternative projects.
Comments