Paper: GS – III, Subject: Economy, Topic: Infrastructure, Issue: Kerala RRTS project.
Context:
Kerala has proposed a Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) as a high-speed, modern rail network to improve long-distance connectivity within the State. It is presented as a more feasible and integrated alternative to the earlier Silverline project, focusing on mobility, urban integration, and economic development.
Key Takeaways:
What is the New RRTS Project?
- The Kerala government has approved a Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) for high-speed rail travel within the State, from Thiruvananthapuram to Kasaragod.
- This decision comes after the State government expressed dissatisfaction with the Central government’s response to the earlier Silverline semi-high-speed rail project proposal.
- The RRTS aims to provide a viable and acceptable high-speed rail system, drawing inspiration from the successful Delhi-Meerut corridor implementation.
- A key feature of the RRTS is its potential integration with existing and proposed metro rail projects in Kerala, enhancing last-mile connectivity and reducing reliance on private vehicles.
- The project also aims to link airports, creating a unified multi-modal transit system.
- Specially designed train sets will operate at speeds of 160-180 kmph, with shorter station intervals compared to traditional high-speed rail.
| Feature | RRTS | Silverline Project |
| Environmental Impact | Built mainly on pillars (viaduct model), reducing land acquisition and allowing natural water flow | Designed largely on embankments (ground level), faced criticism for land use and environmental disruption in dense areas |
| Integration | Planned to integrate with metro systems in Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kozhikode for better last-mile connectivity | Limited integration focus compared to RRTS |
| Speed | Planned operational speed of 160–180 kmph | Conceived for speeds up to 200 kmph |
| Stops & Operations | More intermediate stops; optimized for fast acceleration and braking; suitable for urban and regional travel; can handle curves | Fewer stops; designed for faster, long-distance semi-high-speed travel |
| Suitability | Better suited for urban transport and multi-modal connectivity | Focused on rapid intercity travel across the State |
What is the Construction Plan?
- The Kerala government has conceived the project for a total length of 583 km, from Thiruvananthapuram to Kasaragod, in four phases:
- Phase 1: Travancore Line (Thiruvananthapuram to Thrissur, including Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi Metros) – Targeted completion by 2033.
- Phase 2: Malabar Line (Thrissur to Kozhikode, including Kozhikode Metro).
- Phase 3: Kannur Line (Kozhikode to Kannur).
- Phase 4: Kasaragod Line (Kannur to Kasaragod).
What is the Estimated Cost?
- The project is estimated to cost approximately ₹1,92,780 crore.
- However, the final cost will be determined upon completion of the Detailed Project Report (DPR), after finalizing alignments, technical models, signaling systems, and Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) models.
The RRTS project represents Kerala’s attempt to build a modern, integrated, and sustainable high-speed transport backbone, balancing mobility needs, economic growth, and public acceptance after the controversies surrounding the Silverline proposal.
Source: (The Hindu)
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