New Notification Issued for Pune-Nashik Green Corridor, Set to Halve Travel Time”

Pune-Nashik Green Corridor Latest Update: The Maharashtra government has reissued a land acquisition notification for the much-anticipated Pune-Nashik Green Corridor, reviving the project that aims to drastically cut travel time between the two cities. The fresh notification paves the way for land acquisition and project implementation, addressing the delays caused by the lapse of the previous notification.

Government Issues Fresh Notification for Land Acquisition

Last year, the state government had issued a notification for land acquisition, but due to delays in commencement, it lapsed. Now, with a renewed push from authorities, the project is back on track, marking a significant step forward in infrastructure development.

Travel Time to be Reduced by Half

The Pune-Nashik Green Corridor is expected to revolutionize connectivity by cutting the current travel time from 5-6 hours to just 2-2.5 hours. This development follows the successful Pune-Mumbai Expressway Missing Link Project, which reduced the distance between Pune and Mumbai by 6 km and travel time by 30 minutes.

Tied to Vision 2020 Scheme

The Pune-Nashik Green Corridor is linked to the semi-high-speed railway project proposed under the Railway Ministry’s ‘Vision 2020’ scheme. While both the Central and State governments have approved the railway route, the final clearance is still pending.

Project Development and Challenges

Two years ago, discussions surrounding the highway project intensified after then-Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis directed the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) to conduct a feasibility study. However, debates arose over whether priority should be given to the high-speed railway or the highway.

The MSRDC appointed a consultant to prepare the Detailed Project Report (DPR), but resistance from farmers led to further deliberations. The issue was raised with Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who recommended reconsidering the project, resulting in delays.

Boost to Industrial and IT Growth

The Pune-Nashik Green Corridor is expected to enhance connectivity for industrial, agricultural, and IT sectors between the two cities. Pune is already an established IT and industrial hub, while Nashik has seen significant growth in IT companies and agro-based industries. The MSRDC has clarified that the corridor will be a part of the Samruddhi Mahamarg network, contributing to regional economic development.

Project Details and Estimated Cost

• Length: 134 km
• Estimated Cost: Rs 15,696 crore
• Land to be Acquired: 1,545 hectares

With the latest notification in place, the Pune-Nashik Green Corridor is set to move forward, promising enhanced connectivity and economic growth in Maharashtra.