T’puram: The tender for Vizhinjam–Balaramapuram railway tunnel project is expected to be floated next week, signalling a major step forward in strengthening connectivity to the upcoming Vizhinjam International Seaport.According to officials, the project has received all necessary clearances from state govt, and Vizhinjam International Seaport Ltd (VISL) is now awaiting lifting of the model code of conduct, which is anticipated later this week. Once the restrictions are lifted, the tender process will move ahead without delay. VISL managing director Divya S Iyer told TOI that the project has reached a crucial stage. “All statutory clearances are in place, and the proceedings will go ahead as scheduled,” she said. The tender will be floated by Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd, the implementing agency for the ambitious rail connectivity project. Officials indicated that construction work is likely to commence within two months of awarding the contract. The initial phase of construction will begin from Balaramapuram side, where land acquisition has already been completed. Land acquisition in other stretches is in advanced stages, with rehabilitation packages for affected families already approved. The project involves the construction of a 10.7-km railway corridor linking the port to the national railway network, of which around 9.4km will pass through an underground tunnel. The tunnel, to be built using New Austrian Tunnelling Method, will run at depths of up to 25–30m, minimizing surface disruption in densely populated coastal areas. With an estimated cost of Rs 1,482.92 crore, the project is considered a critical component of the infrastructure supporting the Vizhinjam port. The rail link is expected to significantly reduce dependence on road transport, ease traffic congestion and improve cargo movement efficiency. Once completed, the rail corridor will connect Vizhinjam to the broader Indian Railways network via Balaramapuram, enabling seamless freight movement to key hinterland markets across southern and western India. Officials said the project is targeted for completion by the end of 2028, aligning with the port’s long-term expansion plans and its ambition to emerge as a major logistics and maritime hub in the region.
