Overview
- Kerala will provide about ₹1,900–1,905 crore through KIIFB, covering half of the revised ₹3,800.9 crore project cost.
- Revenue authorities have been told to start a de novo acquisition, with 303.58 hectares to be acquired at an estimated ₹1,361 crore and construction budgeted at ₹2,439.93 crore.
- Earlier land acquisition notifications lapsed, and a parliamentary reply noted only 24 of 416 hectares had been secured so far.
- The state will formally notify the Ministry of Railways of its commitment, effectively shelving past disputes over a tripartite MoU and KIIFB borrowing treatment.
- The rail line is pitched to enhance safety for Sabarimala pilgrims and spur growth in the eastern highlands, with leaders also flagging possible future links toward Vizhinjam port.