The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation urged the Kerala government to pursue implementation of a high speed rail corridor, emphasising comprehensive planning and integration with existing mass transit networks across the state.

The corporation highlighted the strategic potential of faster intercity links to ease congestion, support regional mobility and strengthen multimodal connectivity with airports and seaports.

DMRC advised that feasibility work should cover alignment options, ridership projections, station planning and the interface with local transport systems to ensure balanced land use and urban design.

The agency noted that careful assessment of environmental impact and land acquisition implications is essential to mitigate social and ecological risks.

It proposed that technical assistance be provided to state authorities to develop realistic cost estimates and timelines.

Officials argued that a high speed corridor would shorten travel times between major urban centres, enhancing business linkages and supporting tourism without specifying timelines.

Economic activity around stations would generate employment and catalyse real estate and commercial investment while necessitating robust policy frameworks.

Integrated ticketing, last mile connectivity and station area development were identified as priorities to maximise ridership and public benefit.

The DMRC recommended exploring varied financing models including central investment, concessional loans and partnerships with private sector developers to distribute risk and optimise capital flows.

Coordination between central, state and local agencies was described as vital to streamline approvals and secure long term operational viability.

The corporation offered to extend technical expertise during planning and early project stages to align institutional capacity and project delivery and to support inclusive and wide stakeholder consultation processes.