Can E. Sreedharan Realize His Kerala High-Speed Rail Vision at 93?
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Malappuram, Feb 2 (NationPress) Defying the constraints of age, Metro Man E. Sreedharan on Monday reiterated his commitment to transform the envisioned high-speed rail project for Kerala into reality. The official office for the project was inaugurated at 9 a.m. in Ponnani, Malappuram, not far from his current residence.
The inauguration featured a modest yet meaningful ceremony, with his wife lighting the traditional lamp, symbolizing the personal dedication fueling this ambitious project.
At the age of 93, Sreedharan remains steadfast in his pursuit of excellence as a professional master builder, a role that has characterized his life and led to the creation of some of the nation's most remarkable infrastructure endeavors.
During the event, Sreedharan mentioned that the absence of any reference to the project in the Union Budget would not weaken his resolve.
He expressed strong belief that the Railway Ministry's approval would come, emphasizing that infrastructure projects of this magnitude require both perseverance and a clear vision.
The new office will initially serve as a public interface to address questions and concerns regarding the project.
Starting February 15, a series of meetings will be conducted to discuss the technical, financial, and social dimensions of the high-speed rail corridor with the public.
The initial meetings will take place in Malappuram, followed by similar outreach events in other districts along the proposed alignment.
Sreedharan also noted that his discussions with the Union Railway Minister on January 16 were fruitful.
According to him, the Minister has directed that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) be prepared, with an official order authorizing the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) to carry out this task expected in the next three to four days.
He added that he maintains regular communication with the Railway Ministry regarding follow-up actions.
For Sreedharan, age is merely a reminder of the urgency to make a significant contribution while continuing the distinguished work he has pursued for decades.