Green Signal for Kanjikode Rail Coach Factory in Kerala

At last the Union Railway Budget has sanctioned for the rail coach factory for Palakkad (Kanjikode) that was announced four years ago. As per the reports, the foundation stone for this project will be laid on October 22. The decision was taken during the four hour meeting convened by Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy with the Union Railway Minister Dinesh Trivedi which was conducted to set the priorities for the development of railway in the state. This project has been cleared as the state government gave the land for the project at free of cost.

Kerala government had asked for a separate railway zone for the state. But the Union minister conveyed the difficulties for the same and a chief administrative officer would be appointed as a nodal officer to liaison for the rail development in the state.

Rajya Rani Link Express, the train running between Nilambur and Thiruvanathapuram, which was allotted to Kerala in the previous railway budget would operate from October and the union minister also said that the Mangalore – Palakkad Intercity Express would operate from October end onwards.

He also informed that the electrification of the Thiruvanathapuram – Kanyakumari railway section will be completed in this year itself. Also Indian Railway is ready to operate the Kanyakumari – Dibrugarh Vivek Express passing through Kerala.

State government had also put forward a 20,000 crore high speed railway project connecting Thiruvananthapuram and Mangalore, covering the entire Kerala. This project will make the transport in Kerala easier and faster. But the Railway Minister told that private participation may be required for this project and will be considering later.

Minister also told that the railways will consider the Mysore – Thalassery railway line in their next board level meeting eventhough it is economically it is not feasible. Railways also consider more railway coaches for women. He also informed the government that the railway medical college allotted to the state will be sanctioned as soon as the land for the same will be given by the government.

The Chief Minister said that a committee headed by the Chief Secretary would meet every month, as suggested at the meeting, to sort out issues between various agencies of the State and Railways to expedite rail development.