A $12.6 million project to ensure the stability of the Kuranda Scenic Railway line kicked off yesterday to ensure the future of the 125-year-old icon.

It is one of the most iconic railways in the world, winding its way through the tropics and along cliff faces more than 300 metres above the rail line. It is also an immensely popular tourist attraction for locals and visitors alike who regularly make the trip from Port Douglas.

Queensland Government Treasurer Curtis Pitt said it was an important investment.

“Over the past five years geotechnical engineers have been monitoring and undertaking inspections to determine what works may be required to future proof the iconic railway line," Pitt said.

“Thirteen locations were identified as benefiting from reinforcement works and I’m pleased to see this $12.6 million project kicking off today,” he said.

The project is the result of a detailed, five year geotechnical assessment to understand the rugged terrain and ensure its stability.

The first stage of the works involves environmental, cultural, heritage and ecological assessments of the area, to ensure the works don’t impact on the natural environment or heritage of the region.

The assessment works will involve environmental officers gaining access, many by rope, to some of the most inaccessible parts of the track and inspecting rock faces, gullies, creeks, and fauna and flora.