In a significant development for Maharashtra’s infrastructure, the state government has given the green light to the 213 km long Pune-Nashik Green Corridor (High-Speed Rail) project. While the Pune-Nashik Semi High-Speed Rail project is in its final approval stages, the synergy between these projects raises questions about whether they will be combined or remain separate entities.
The Union Ministry of Railways has outlined ‘Vision 2020,’ including provisions for a semi-high-speed railway connecting Pune and Nashik. The design has received approval from both the Union Ministry of Railways and the State Government, awaiting final clearance from the former.
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, recognizing the importance of connectivity, directed the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) to conduct a technical and financial feasibility report for the Pune to Nashik Industrial Expressway. A subsequent meeting with railway officials aimed to quell controversy, emphasizing an accelerated high-speed rail project.
Simultaneously, MSRDC, responsible for the Pune-Nashik Green Corridor, appointed a consultant to design this route. The report from the consulting company will determine if the railway and green corridor will coexist or be implemented separately.
Today, the state government approved the design of the Pune-Nashik Green Corridor, indicating progress on both fronts. The corridor spans 213 km, covering Pune, Ahmednagar, and Nashik districts and aims to reduce travel time between Pune and Nashik to two to two and a half hours, with an expected expenditure of 21,158 crores.
Key Project Details:
- Length: 213 km Pune-Nashik Corridor
- Land Acquisition: 2,000 hectares
- Districts Covered: Pune, Ahmednagar, Nashik
- Travel Time: Two to two and a half hours
- Expected Expenditure: 21,158 crores
Project Significance:
Pune, an industrial and cultural hub, and Nashik, an agricultural market, host a vast network of small, medium, and heavy industry factories and agricultural institutions. The Green Corridor aims to connect these cities through the Samriddhi Highway, fostering economic growth and employment opportunities.
The semi-high-speed rail, designed to run at 200 km/hr, will connect Pune to Nashik via 24 stations, contributing to smoother commutes and boosting economic growth. Additionally, it is expected to alleviate traffic congestion, enhance safety, and create a more environmentally friendly transportation system.
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Phadnavis’ directive to explore the feasibility of the Pune to Nashik Industrial Expressway adds another layer to the project, providing dual transportation options.
This initiative will not only benefit passenger travel but also enhance cargo movement for industries, particularly the fast-track transportation of coal to thermal power plants, potentially opening new revenue streams.
As both projects move forward simultaneously, Maharashtra eagerly awaits the realization of enhanced connectivity and economic prosperity.
