At 93, E Sreedharan pushes ahead with Kerala High-Speed Rail vision
Malappuram, Feb 2
Undeterred by age, Metro Man E. Sreedharan on Monday reaffirmed his determination to see the proposed high-speed rail project for Kerala become a reality, inaugurating the project's official office at 9 a.m. at Ponnani in Malappuram, close to the residence where he currently lives.
The inauguration was marked by a simple yet symbolic ceremony, with his wife taking the lead in lighting the traditional lamp, underscoring the personal commitment behind the ambitious initiative.
At 93, Sreedharan remains resolute that he will continue to work as a professional master builder, staying true to the vocation that has defined his life and produced some of the country's most iconic infrastructure projects.
Speaking on the occasion, Sreedharan said the absence of any mention of the project in the Union Budget would not dampen his resolve.
He expressed firm confidence that approval from the Railway Ministry would eventually come, stressing that the infrastructure of this scale requires perseverance and clarity of purpose.
In the initial phase, the newly opened office will function as a public interface to address doubts and concerns surrounding the project.
From February 15, a series of meetings will be held to explain the technical, financial and social aspects of the high-speed rail corridor to the public.
The first round of meetings will begin in Malappuram, after which similar outreach programmes will be organised in other districts through which the proposed alignment will pass.
Sreedharan also said that his discussions with the Union Railway Minister on January 16 were productive.
According to him, the Minister has instructed that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) be prepared, and an official order authorising the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) to undertake this task is expected within three to four days.
He added that he remains in constant touch with the Railway Ministry regarding follow-up procedures.
For Sreedharan, age is no barrier -- only a reminder of the urgency to contribute meaningfully while continuing the work he has pursued with distinction for decades.
— IANS
Reader Comments
The Metro Man is a legend. But I have a genuine concern - where will the massive funding come from? It wasn't in the Union Budget. We've seen many grand projects in Kerala get delayed for decades due to financial issues and land acquisition problems. Hope this doesn't become another one.
His dedication is next level! Opening an office for public interface is a smart move. Public buy-in is crucial for such big projects. If anyone can get this done, it's Sreedharan saab. Delhi Metro is proof of his capability.
As someone who travels frequently between Kochi and Kozhikode for work, a high-speed rail would be a game-changer. The current train journey takes forever. This project could truly transform mobility in the state. Fingers crossed!
Respectfully, while I admire his spirit, we must be realistic. The state's finances are stretched. Shouldn't we focus on improving existing railways and roads first? A high-speed rail is a luxury project that might burden future generations with debt.
The symbolism of his wife lighting the lamp was beautiful. It shows this is a mission close to his heart. His confidence that Railway Ministry approval will come is reassuring. We need more visionary leaders like him who think beyond their lifetime.
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