Development vs Politics: The Kerala Government’s Reluctance on Sabarimala Rail
Sabarimala Railway Line: Another Delay Amid Kerala Government’s Excuses
The much-anticipated Sabarimala railway line has once again hit a roadblock, with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan citing financial constraints as the primary reason for the delay. This crucial infrastructure project, which holds immense significance for millions of Ayyappa devotees, has faced repeated setbacks, largely due to the state government's inconsistent stance and reluctance to share financial responsibility.
A History of Delays and Political Hesitations
The Sabarimala railway project, originally sanctioned by the Central Railway Ministry in 1998, was designed to enhance connectivity to the renowned pilgrimage site. However, procedural delays plagued its execution for decades. In 2016, the Railway Ministry and the Kerala government reached an agreement to transfer the project to a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), with the Centre contributing 51% of the funding and the state 49%. The project was further prioritized under the PM's Proactive Governance and Timely Implementation (PRAGATI) framework.
Despite initial agreements, the Kerala government reversed its position in 2021 after Prime Minister Narendra Modi publicly endorsed the project. This sudden withdrawal raised concerns that the state government feared the BJP-led Centre would receive credit for the development. Kerala’s Chief Secretary soon announced the state’s inability to meet its financial obligations, effectively stalling the project and leaving the Railway Ministry with no choice but to put further proceedings on hold.
Centre’s Proactive Approach, Kerala’s Reluctance
Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to executing the project, even proposing a tripartite agreement involving the Reserve Bank of India to address financial concerns. In response to mounting pressure, the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government belatedly expressed its willingness to cover 50% of the project costs. This led to the Kerala Rail Development Corporation Limited (K-Rail) preparing a revised project proposal in which the estimated cost was updated to Rs 3,810.69 crore. The plan also suggested extending the railway line to Vizhinjam via Pathanamthitta, Punalur, and Nedumangad to enhance long-term connectivity.
However, just as progress seemed imminent, the Kerala government once again introduced new roadblocks—this time demanding an increase in the state’s loan limit under the pretext of financial constraints. This repeated backtracking and lack of commitment exemplify a pattern of political maneuvering rather than genuine governance.
Political Blame Games Over Public Welfare
The Sabarimala railway project has become a stark illustration of the Kerala government’s approach: delay, evade responsibility, and engage in political blame games while crucial infrastructure developments remain stalled. The CPM-led government’s inconsistent policies and refusal to cooperate with the Centre have ultimately hindered progress on a project that could have significantly improved connectivity and benefitted devotees across the country.
Critics argue that this aligns with a broader pattern often associated with communist regimes: making ambitious promises, failing to deliver, and later deflecting responsibility by spinning narratives of victimhood. Meanwhile, the central government remains steadfast in its efforts to drive development, but Kerala’s reluctance to collaborate continues to obstruct transformative initiatives.
As the delays persist, one thing remains clear—the Sabarimala railway project is yet another casualty of political expediency taking precedence over the needs of the people.
(inputs organiser)
