Maharashtra : State govt approves Rs 196 crore fund for Pune-Nashik semi-high-speed rail project

The Maharashtra State Government has allocated a substantial fund of Rs 196 crore to the Maharashtra Lohmarg Infrastructure Development Company for the eagerly anticipated Pune-Nashik semi-high-speed rail project.

This commenced on March 8, 2021, when the State Cabinet gave its nod for financial participation in the construction of the new semi-high-speed double-line railway connecting Pune and Nashik. This project seeks to bridge the geographical gap between the two cities.

The impetus for this development stemmed from the persistent efforts of the Managing Director of Lohmarg Infrastructure Development Company, who earnestly petitioned for the requisite funds to facilitate land acquisition for the project.

Following this, the State Government under the directive of Pratam Madkar from the Home Department issued the necessary orders to allocate the funds which target land acquisition catering to the demands raised by the Pune, Ahmednagar and Nashik Collector.

Beyond its economic implications, the Pune-Nashik Semi-High Speed Rail Project is set to revolutionize travel dynamics, significantly reducing commute time between the two cities by a mere two hours over the 235-kilometer stretch. 

The proposed route traversing through Pune, Ahmednagar and Nashik districts will host trains operating at speeds of up to 200 kilometers per hour ensuring swift and efficient travel. 

Furthermore, plans are underway for approximately 24 stations along the Pune-Nashik route, this transformative project holds the promise of generating substantial employment opportunities and fostering socio-economic development across the region.