Alappuzha: Indian Railways approved the Mararikulam Alappuzha doubling project at a cost of ₹220.51 crore to strengthen rail infrastructure and increase capacity on the Southern Railway network.
The project covers a 10.65-km stretch between Mararikulam and Alappuzha. Indian Railways cleared the proposal under its programme for doubling, tripling, quadrupling, flyovers and bypass works.
The Mararikulam-Alappuzha section remains the only single-line stretch on the Ernakulam-Turavur-Alappuzha-Ambalapuzha-Kayankulam corridor. Railway authorities have already commissioned or started other doubling works on the route.
The project will enable nine additional passenger trains in each direction every day. It will also support freight traffic of 2.88 million tonnes annually. Furthermore, the project could generate about ₹3.08 crore in additional annual earnings.
Mararikulam Alappuzha doubling to improve rail operations
The new line will reduce train detention and improve operational efficiency. As a result, passenger and freight services will move faster across the corridor.
Railway officials said the project will enhance line capacity and improve punctuality. In addition, it will strengthen connectivity across the region.
Indian Railways identified the project under Mission 3000 MT and the High Density Traffic Network Corridor programme. Official estimates show a Financial Internal Rate of Return of 3.99 percent. The Economic Internal Rate of Return stands at 22.30 percent.
The approval highlights Indian Railways’ focus on expanding capacity and modernising infrastructure. Moreover, the project will support Kerala’s socio-economic development through better rail connectivity.
