Political Leaders Oppose Proposed Realignment of Pune-Nashik Railway Project
Political leaders from Nashik have united in strong opposition to the proposed realignment of the Pune-Nashik semi-high-speed railway project, expressing concerns over the potential impact on connectivity, economic benefits, and project efficiency. Led by former minister Chhagan Bhujbal, the leaders have urged the Railway Ministry and the Maharashtra government to retain the original route, which ensures direct connectivity via key areas such as Sinnar, Sangamner, Narayangaon, Manchar, Rajgurunagar, and Chakan.
The revised alignment, which proposes a new route through Ahilyanagar and Sai Nagar Shirdi, would extend the railway line by 80 km. This change, the leaders argue, undermines the primary goal of the project – to provide a direct, efficient rail link between Pune and Nashik, crucial for both passenger and freight movement in the industrial corridor.
Chhagan Bhujbal, in a letter to Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, called for adherence to the original alignment before the state commits to its 50% share in the project. He highlighted that the original route was designed to meet the needs of an underdeveloped region, aligning with the state’s policy of supporting railway projects in such areas to accelerate infrastructure development. Bhujbal stressed that the original route would support economic growth and improve the region’s logistics capabilities, particularly in relation to the recently approved Nashik-Vadhavan Port railway under the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC). The opposition to the realignment is rooted in concerns over efficiency, travel time, and the economic implications of the proposed changes. Bhujbal pointed out that the revised route would significantly lengthen the journey, which goes against the very purpose of the semi-high-speed rail project. The longer route could delay the implementation of the project, which is critical for the smooth functioning of the Pune-Nashik industrial corridor, a key hub for manufacturing and freight exports.
The opposition has been echoed by other political figures, including MLC Satyajit Tambe and Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Rajabhau Waje. Tambe argued that the revised route would increase travel time, undermining the project’s efficiency and utility. Waje voiced similar concerns, adding that nearly 30% of land acquisition had already been completed for the original alignment. Any changes to the route, he warned, would complicate the process and delay the project’s progress. Waje further stated that if the government proceeds with the realignment, the political leaders would be forced to launch protests to protect the interests of the region. The concerns raised by the political leaders highlight the importance of ensuring that the Pune-Nashik railway project meets its original objectives of providing a fast, efficient, and direct link between the two cities. The leaders argue that the realignment would not only disrupt the project’s goals but also affect the broader economic impact it could have on Maharashtra, particularly in terms of facilitating seamless freight exports via Vadhavan Port.
The opposition to the proposed changes has sparked a broader debate on the effectiveness of large infrastructure projects and the need to balance political, economic, and logistical considerations. The government must carefully weigh the potential consequences of altering the railway’s route and consider the long-term benefits of retaining the original alignment. The voices of local political leaders and residents are critical in shaping the future of such projects, and it is clear that the future of the Pune-Nashik railway is at a crossroads. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether the Maharashtra government will reconsider the proposed realignment or push forward with the revised plan. What is certain is that the original alignment remains a key issue for the region, and it will take significant dialogue and planning to reach a solution that serves the best interests of the public and the economy.
