The proposed 71-kilometre stretch, which links Kerala to Tamil Nadu, is being primed for transformation into a high-capacity transport route
capable of sustaining surging passenger volumes and growing freight demand, particularly from the upcoming Vizhinjam International Seaport.As part of its anticipatory infrastructure development strategy, Indian Railways has announced a detailed location survey set to commence in the financial year 2025–26. This initial groundwork, backed by provisions in the forthcoming budget, will study the feasibility of adding a third track, including land availability, alignment possibilities, and engineering constraints. The objective is clear: to ensure that rail infrastructure does not become a bottleneck in the region’s future economic growth.
Currently, the corridor is operating under severe capacity limitations with only a single line, even as doubling work is underway. The proposed third track will provide a separate path for freight operations, preserving passenger service schedules while enabling a seamless flow of goods. This is especially critical as Vizhinjam Port, with its deep-draft and global shipping connectivity, nears operational readiness. The port is expected to emerge as a key transshipment hub, handling a significant share of India’s international container traffic.This planned rail enhancement is a response to both current operational bottlenecks and expected spikes in demand. Officials highlight that once containerised cargo begins to move from Vizhinjam, the existing infrastructure will be insufficient to support the load without delays and disruptions. A third track will allow for better train scheduling, reduced travel times, and higher reliability for both cargo and commuter traffic.
Beyond economic considerations, the move is also aligned with Indian Railways’ green logistics vision. Shifting freight movement from roads to rail can drastically lower emissions, reduce fossil fuel consumption, and improve air quality across the region. For daily commuters between Kerala and Tamil Nadu, this project offers the hope of more frequent and punctual services, less congestion, and a better quality of travel.Rail-based mobility remains a lifeline in the region, especially for those relying on it for education, employment, and healthcare access. With the added track, the corridor can handle an increased number of services, thus providing critical support to expanding urban and peri-urban populations. Furthermore, the third line will reduce dependency on road travel, offering an efficient, low-emission transport option for the future.
The upcoming survey will take a comprehensive view—considering integration with station infrastructure, geographic limitations, and environmental compliance. It also reflects Indian Railways’ shift toward proactive, long-term planning, aiming to have foundational processes in place so that construction can commence without delay once the doubling work concludes.As India gears up to meet the demands of global trade and sustainable urbanisation, the proposed rail upgrade between Kerala and Tamil Nadu positions southern India at the forefront of integrated, climate-conscious transport development. In laying the groundwork today, Indian Railways is not only building tracks—it is paving the way for a more connected, equitable, and environmentally responsible tomorrow.
