'Metro Man' Sreedharan meets Kerala CM Satheesan on projects

'Metro Man' Sreedharan meets CM Satheesan, discusses key development projects

Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 8

The meeting was held at the Chief Minister's office, and the discussions focused on improving connectivity.

They also covered long-term development projects. Satheesan later described the discussions as fruitful.

"Met with Dr E. Sreedharan today. Held fruitful discussions on advancing key connectivity and state development projects to ensure sustainable, long-term growth," the Chief Minister said on his social media accounts.

The meeting assumes significance given Sreedharan's experience in executing major infrastructure projects in the country.

Sreedharan is widely known for his role in the construction of the Delhi Metro, and was also closely associated with the development of the Konkan Railway.

His expertise has also been sought for major transport projects in Kerala.

Sreedharan had earlier held discussions with Satheesan on his proposal for a high-speed rail corridor in Kerala.

He had submitted an interim report on the proposal to the Chief Minister.

The UDF government later appointed an expert panel to examine the proposal and look into its technical and financial feasibility.

Environmental and other aspects were also to be examined.

The government has not taken a final decision on the project.

Tuesday's meeting, however, was not described as being limited to the high-speed rail proposal.

The Chief Minister referred to "key connectivity and state development projects", suggesting that the discussions covered a broader development agenda.

Sreedharan's meeting with Satheesan comes at a time when the government is looking at ways to improve infrastructure and connectivity in the state.

The government has been stressing the need for projects that are financially viable and sustainable.

Sreedharan's inputs could be significant in this context.

The meeting also indicates that the government continues to engage with the veteran infrastructure expert on Kerala's development priorities.

No details of specific projects discussed at the meeting were officially disclosed.

The meeting is expected to keep Sreedharan's infrastructure proposals and his views on Kerala's development agenda in focus.

— IANS