Mumbai, July 23 -- Shashi Tharoor, Member of Parliament (MP), has urged the Chief Minister (CM) to initiate a metro rail project for Thiruvananthapuram to tackle increasing traffic congestion and support sustainable urban growth. He framed the proposal as a strategic investment in the capital region's infrastructure that would improve connectivity and reduce travel times for daily commuters. The appeal highlights the need for modern mass transit to keep pace with the city's expanding population and economic activity.

Tharoor asked the state government to commission a comprehensive feasibility study that would assess route options, ridership projections and environmental impact. He recommended that planners consider integration with existing bus networks and suburban rail to provide seamless multimodal transport. The submission emphasised accessibility, last mile connectivity and provision for non-motorised transport around stations.

The MP urged coordination between state agencies and the central government to secure technical support and funding for implementation. He also suggested exploring public private partnership structures to accelerate construction while protecting public interest.

State officials acknowledged receipt of the representation and said the proposal will be examined by relevant departments and urban planning bodies. They indicated that any project would require detailed project reports, statutory clearances and alignment with broader transport policies. Officials noted that stakeholder consultations would be necessary before final approvals.

Urban planners welcomed renewed focus on mass transit for the capital but underlined the importance of rigorous planning and realistic phasing. They stressed that careful attention to land use, fare policy and integration with local mobility services would determine the scheme's long term viability. The matter will now progress through formal channels as authorities assess technical and financial parameters carefully.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Construction World.