In a session of the Kerala Assembly, State Transport Minister Ahmed Devarkovil made it clear that Kerala cannot accept the Central Government’s proposal to construct the third and fourth rail lines using state funds. The minister was responding to a calling attention motion raised by legislators regarding the state’s railway development projects.
Minister V. Abdurahiman highlighted Kerala’s long-standing efforts to push for the completion of the Sabari Rail project, a railway line aimed at connecting Ernakulam to the pilgrim center of Sabarimala. Despite multiple discussions with railway authorities, no conclusive decision has been made on the project. This delay has left key stakeholders and the public disappointed.
The minister criticized the Centre’s stance on asking states to fund national infrastructure projects. “Railway projects are a central responsibility, and expecting states to bear the cost of such large-scale infrastructure is not acceptable,” he stated, adding that this would impose an undue financial burden on Kerala, which is already managing several key developmental initiatives.
Members from various parties in the Assembly expressed their concerns over the neglect of Kerala’s railway needs and supported the state government’s firm stand. They urged the Centre to address the pending railway proposals and ensure timely implementation of key projects.
This development highlights the growing tensions between state and central governments over funding and decision-making for critical infrastructure projects.
