Maha Govt considers moving ahead with Pune-Nashik Semi-High Speed Rail Project despite delays

Highlighting the significance of the project, Pawar noted, "This high-speed railway has been a long pending demand by citizens of Nashik and Pune. We have been waiting for 25 years."

However, concerns from central railways earlier raised a red flag. They expressed reservations about the feasibility of developing the proposed track "at grade," hinting at potential obstacles in implementing the plan at ground level. The uncertainty arising from the railway ministry's reservations had cast doubts on the project's future.

To potentially address this impasse, officials are considering bringing the project under the purview of the Metro Rail Act. This strategic move would not only exempt the project from being solely executed by central railways but also enable partial funding from both state and central governments.

Rajesh Kumar Jaiswal, Managing Director of Maha Rail, confirmed, "In accordance with Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's directive, we will prepare the proposal and submit it for cabinet review."

The envisioned 235-km Pune-Nashik railway line is poised to traverse through Pune, Ahmednagar, and Nashik districts. With a targeted speed of 200 kmph, the journey between Pune and Nashik is projected to be covered in approximately one hour and forty-five minutes. The success of this high-speed endeavor would offer seamless connectivity to pivotal industrial zones of both cities including Hadapsar, Wagholi, Alandi, Chakan, Khed, Manchar, Narayangaon, Sinnar, and Satpur.

The recent meeting convened by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar saw the participation of influential figures such as MLA Autl Benke, Chief Secretary Manoj Saunik, Finance Department Chief Secretary Nitin Kareer, Planning Department Secretary Saurabh Vijay, and Maharail MD Rajesh Kumar Jaiswal. As the state pushes forward with innovative strategies to overcome delays, the hopes for enhanced connectivity between Pune and Nashik remain steadfast.