Pune Nashik Rail Corridor Faces Route Review

Pune: The Maharashtra government is preparing to commission an expert committee to examine whether the original alignment of the proposed Pune Nashik rail corridor can be restored without affecting critical scientific infrastructure. The review comes amid growing demands from public representatives who believe the earlier route would improve regional connectivity, strengthen local economies and reduce travel time between two of the state’s fastest-growing urban centres.

The proposed Pune Nashik rail corridor is designed to enhance mobility between Pune and Nashik while supporting economic integration across western Maharashtra. However, differences over the alignment have prompted the state government to initiate a fresh technical assessment before pursuing further discussions with the Union government. Representatives from Pune, Nashik and Ahilyanagar districts have urged the state to retain the corridor’s original alignment through Sangamner, Narayangaon, Manchar and Rajgurunagar. According to those supporting the proposal, the earlier route would provide stronger links to agricultural markets, industrial clusters and commercial centres, enabling faster passenger movement while encouraging balanced regional development.

The alignment was modified after concerns emerged over the protected radio-silence zone surrounding the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope near Narayangaon. The nationally significant scientific facility requires strict protection from electromagnetic interference, leading railway planners to prepare a revised alignment through Ahilyanagar and Shirdi while advancing the project’s detailed planning. Infrastructure experts say the proposed technical committee could determine whether engineering solutions or limited route adjustments would allow the Pune Nashik rail corridor to preserve the integrity of the scientific zone while maintaining efficient regional connectivity. Such evaluations are becoming increasingly important as infrastructure projects are expected to balance transport efficiency with environmental protection, scientific research and community interests. The discussions have also highlighted concerns over land acquisition. Public representatives have pointed to the potential impact of the revised route on fertile agricultural land in parts of western Maharashtra, arguing that infrastructure expansion should minimise displacement and safeguard productive farmland wherever feasible. They also note that certain locations already benefit from adequate road connectivity, making careful assessment of additional rail infrastructure essential.

Urban planners believe the Pune Nashik rail corridor has wider implications for sustainable regional development. A faster intercity rail connection could encourage greater use of public transport, reduce dependence on private vehicles and lower transport-related carbon emissions. Better rail access may also stimulate investment, strengthen employment opportunities and support the growth of emerging urban centres beyond the state’s major metropolitan areas. State officials are expected to constitute the expert committee shortly, after which its findings will inform future discussions with the Centre regarding the corridor’s final alignment. The outcome is likely to shape not only travel between Pune and Nashik but also the broader direction of sustainable transport planning, regional economic development and climate-conscious infrastructure investment in Maharashtra.

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Pune Nashik Rail Corridor Faces Route Review