The project’s funding model includes Rs 24,000 crore (40%) mobilised through crowdfunding, with the remaining Rs 36,000 crore provided jointly by the Union and Kerala governments in a 51:49 equity ratio. Kerala’s share of the equity stands at about Rs 17,600 crore. This financing plan is expected to significantly reduce the dependency on large-scale debt financing. Crowdfunding could be implemented through tax-free bonds, a strategy similar to that used in the Konkan Railway project, although the exact mechanism is yet to be finalized.
The corridor is proposed as the world’s first “Green Rail Corridor,” with its entire energy needs fulfilled by a captive solar power system. Any surplus electricity generated would be supplied back to the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB).
Compared to the scrapped SilverLine project, the KHSR project is notably less expensive—less than half its estimated cost of Rs 1.26 lakh crore—and features key design differences. It plans a double-line railway mostly on elevated viaducts, with only a short underground section in Thiruvananthapuram. Standard-gauge tracks are proposed to lower axle loads, reducing both construction and operational costs while enabling the use of globally proven high-speed rail technologies.
The project also focuses on minimizing land acquisition by requiring only a narrow strip for the elevated tracks. Future extensions towards Kasaragod, Wayanad, and Palakkad have been included in the long-term planning.
Train operations are planned with 12-coach trains seating 800 passengers initially, with the option to extend to 16 coaches. Peak-hour service (6am-11am and 4pm-8pm) will have trains every 20 minutes, and non-peak hours will see trains every 40 minutes. The total daily passenger capacity is estimated at 54,400, with no standing passengers allowed; all seating will be based on advance reservations.
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) suggests that the entire corridor can be completed within five years following the receipt of the necessary statutory approvals.
