The proposed Chengannur-Pampa rail line, which will facilitate the Alappuzha-Sabarimala journey, is now awaiting approval from the Union Cabinet and the Railway Board. The railway project is designed to be completed within five years. The proposal is for a modern broad-gauge double track known as the Fast Rail Transit System. The route length from Chengannur railway station to Pampa is 59.23 km. The stations along the route are Chengannur, Aranmula, Vadaserikara, Seethathode, and Pampa. A total of 22 bridges and 20 tunnels will be constructed. The route passes through Puliyur, Ala, and Mulakuzha panchayats in the Alappuzha district.
•Estimated cost: Rs 6,480 crore, expected torise to Rs 7,208.24 crore by completion.
•Completion period: 5 years
•Maximum speed capacity: 200 km/h
•Track length: 126.16 km
•Land requirement: 213.687 hectares, including127.038 hectares of private land and 81.367 hectares of forest land.
•Total length of 20 tunnels: 14.34 km
•Total length of 22 bridges: 14.523 km
•Time-saving: Chengannur-Pampa roadtravel takes over three hours. The Fast Rail Transit System will saveconsiderable time and avoid traffic jams.
Linkage
The route can easily connect to existing major roads, railways, airports, and ports. The distance to Kochi port is 100 km, Kochi airport is 125 km, and Thiruvananthapuram airport is 120 km.
Environmental planning
The project area includes 81.367 hectares of forest land. The plan includes alternatives to mitigate the loss of forest area and protect the environment.