In a significant push towards infrastructure development, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has taken charge to expedite the progress of the long-pending Pune-Nashik semi-high-speed railway line. Following a comprehensive review, Pawar has directed officials to swiftly investigate and ensure the state government’s unwavering commitment to completing the project.
Addressing concerns over the project’s stagnation in recent years, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar clarified on Thursday that the state government is determined to see through the pending Pune-Nashik semi-high-speed railway line. Pawar revealed that the project plan has received approval from the state cabinet, and steps for site acquisition will be expedited shortly. This information was conveyed to officials during a meeting at the ‘Deputy Chief Minister’s Project Control Room’ held on Thursday.
The Pune-Nashik Semi High-Speed Rail project, previously under the purview of the state government company ‘MAHARAIL,’ faced hurdles as the Union Cabinet did not approve the plan, leading to its delay. Pawar, taking charge of the project’s review, has mandated officials to investigate and submit proposals for swift execution. He has instructed ‘MAHARAIL’ to formulate a new plan, emphasizing the financial benefits the project can bring to the state government.
Despite a prior suggestion that the Ministry of Railways would oversee the project due to economic concerns raised by the finance ministry, Pawar reiterated during the meeting that the state government would spearhead the initiative. The focus remains on expediting land acquisition, with the State Road Development Association set to take necessary steps in this regard.
The revived commitment and directive from Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar instill hope that the Pune-Nashik semi-high-speed railway project will gain momentum and overcome past obstacles.
