Karnataka: DPR for rail link under forest soon, says Sreedharan

Bengaluru: “The underground railway link from Nanjangud in Karnataka to Nilambur in Kerala will have a detailed project report prepared. The Forest Department does have valid concerns about harming the ecology, which is why the survey is being done,” said Metro Man Dr E. Sreedharan, principal advisor to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation.

Asked how the construction would not harm the ecosystem, he said, “The tunnel boring machines will go underground, so there will be no damage." The discussion on the railway line has so far not been conducive, but the government has not said 'No'. The next meeting to discuss this will be on March 27, Dr Sreedharan said. While the stretch is already part of the budget, another feasibility study is being conducted for the proposed Thalassery-Mysuru line.

According to Mr Leo Saldanha from the Environment Support Group, the environmental impact of building an underground line in a forest area cannot be trivialised. “The human ear may not be sensitive. The ears of animals and birds in the national park are very sensitive to explosions, tunnelling, etc. There is a Wildlife Act to protect national parks. The river origin of Kabini watershed is also here."

Commenting on the Bengaluru Metro connectivity, Dr Sreedharan said, “The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation had conducted a study with foreign expertise, for a high-speed rail link from the city to the Kempegowda International Airport which was rejected by the Karnataka government. Now, they are working on a Metro route for the same link."

Mr Venkata Rao, another advising member to Delhi Metro, said, “For reasons unknown, the state government scrapped the idea of getting a high speed rail link.”Mr Sreedharan addressed the press as part of the half-day workshop, 'Enhancing Business Integrity and Ethical Leadership', organised by the Restoration of National Values Foundation.