The Kerala government, led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, is once again pushing ahead with the Silverline semi-high-speed rail project, despite the public opposition and earlier resistance from the central government. Vijayan recently held discussions with Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in Delhi to revive the stalled initiative.

Sources indicate that the Union Minister has shown willingness to consider a revised proposal submitted by noted engineer E. Sreedharan, popularly known as the ‘Metroman’. The original Silverline proposal had faced firm objections from Indian Railways due to its dependency on railway land and close proximity to existing tracks, which posed a risk to future rail expansion plans. Railways had instead recommended establishing third and fourth lines within the state.

However, Sreedharan's revised alignment is reportedly more viable, prompting the minister to agree to review it. Railway officials are expected to hold discussions with Sreedharan in the coming days. Although the proposal was submitted months ago, it had remained unexamined until now.

Previously, the Kerala government had begun preparatory work for the Silverline, including laying demarcation stones, but the initiative faced strong public backlash and was later shelved due to the lack of central approval.

In addition, the long-delayed Sabari Rail project, linking Angamaly to the pilgrimage centre of Sabarimala, has gained momentum following Tuesday’s talks. State Railway Minister V. Abdurahiman stated that the Centre has agreed to advance the project and resolve pending issues related to cost sharing.

The 111-kilometre line has been under consideration for over 25 years, but funding disputes between the state and central governments had delayed its execution. With project costs escalating by over 35 per cent to approximately Rs 38 billion, the renewed commitment from the Centre is expected to fast-track its implementation.