Silver Line Project

In Context

• The Silver Line Project is being opposed by the Left Democratic Front (LDF)and environmentalists.
• According to them, It is financially unviable and would lead to the displacement of over 30,000 families. 

• It would cause great environmental harm as its route cuts through precious wetlands, paddy fields and hills.

About Silver Line Project

• It is a 532-km semi-high speed rail corridor. 
• It will connect 11 of the 14 districts of Kerala, situated at both ends. Alappuzha, Wayanad, and Idukki are not part of this.
• It aims to cut the travel time between the two ends of the state from 12 hours to less than four hours. 
• It also plans to connect the corridor with the international airports at Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram. 
• The plan for a high-speed rail network was first suggested in the 2011 Budget.
  • The project deadline is 2025.
• Significance: 
  • It can take a significant load of traffic off the existing stretch and make travel faster for commuters, which in turn will reduce congestion on roads and help reduce accidents.
  • It will also reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Image Courtesy: IE

Source:newindianexpress