Indian Railways Finalizes Semi High-Speed Corridor Plan

Indian Railways has finalized the DPR for a semi high-speed rail corridor connecting Pune, Ahilyanagar, Shirdi, and Nashik, enhancing transport and economic ties in Maharashtra. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Central Railway officials plan to submit the Detailed Project Report to the Railway Ministry within a week, following a final internal review. This corridor is expected to transform mobility in western India.

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The revised alignment follows the current highway from Pune to Ahilyanagar and introduces a fresh route from Shirdi to Nashik. It covers 235 kilometers in total and avoids key scientific zones.

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This change became essential because the previous alignment threatened the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) in Khodad, a major global research facility. Engineers adjusted the route to prevent disruption.

In January, the Railway Minister ordered a new DPR that protects the GMRT while advancing the rail project. The corridor will pass over or tunnel beneath sensitive areas to reduce impact.

According to MP Dr. Amol Kolhe, the realigned route avoids damage to the GMRT and minimizes displacement of local landowners. So, the project balances infrastructure with environmental and social concerns.

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Although the new route adds 45 minutes between Pune and Nashik, it bypasses major obstacles and maintains safety standards. The expected journey speed is 200 km/h.

The semi high-speed line will include 24 stations, with 13 designated as major and 11 as minor. These stops will support regional transit and freight movement.

Project costs are estimated at ₹16,000 crore, which equals approximately $1.92 billion. Construction is expected to finish in three and a half years.

With the DPR finalized and final corrections underway, Indian Railways moves closer to launching a transformative rail link across Maharashtra.

Source: www.punekarnews.in

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