In a key development for Maharashtra’s transport infrastructure, Central Railway has finalized the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the proposed Pune–Ahilyanagar–Shirdi–Nashik semi high-speed rail corridor. The DPR will be submitted to the Railway Ministry this week after a final review.
New Route Prioritized to Protect Scientific Landmarks
Despite public demand to follow the older Pune–Nashik rail alignment, engineers opted for a new path to protect the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) in Junnar, a globally renowned scientific facility. Acting on directives from Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the new DPR ensures zero disruption to the GMRT site through smart engineering — including overpasses and tunnels near sensitive zones.
Project Highlights: Route, Speed & Timeline
- Total Length: ~235 km
- Route Segments:
- Pune to Ahilyanagar – 125 km
- Shirdi to Nashik – 82 km
- Top Speed: 200 km/h
- Estimated Cost: ₹16,000 crore
- Completion Timeframe: 3.5 years
- Stations: 24 (13 major, 11 minor)
Although the new alignment may increase travel time between Pune and Nashik by up to 45 minutes, it significantly reduces land acquisition conflicts and environmental risks.
Economic & Regional Impact
According to MP Dr. Amol Kolhe, the rail corridor will drive industrial growth and support agricultural transport across Western and Northern Maharashtra. The Ahilyanagar belt, in particular, is expected to emerge as a strategic link connecting Pune’s urban core with Nashik’s agri-industrial zones.
Moreover, the route will ease passenger travel, boost tourism in Shirdi, and reduce dependency on road transport, helping decongest highways and cut down carbon emissions.
Next Steps
With the DPR complete and final corrections underway, the project awaits Railway Ministry approval. Once greenlit, it could emerge as one of India’s most transformative regional rail projects — connecting four key cities with speed, safety, and sustainability.
