Central Railway Completes DPR for Revised Semi High-Speed Pune-Ahilyanagar-Shirdi-Nashik Rail Corridor
Pune, July 12, 2025: The Central Railway (CR) has finalized the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the revised semi high-speed rail corridor connecting Pune, Ahilyanagar, Shirdi, and Nashik. Once approved, this ambitious project is expected to boost regional connectivity, reduce travel time, and spur economic growth in Maharashtra.
Revised Alignment to Protect GMRT Facility
The decision to revise the rail corridor’s alignment came after Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw directed authorities in January 2025 to reconsider the original route due to the presence of the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) in Khodad, Junnar. The GMRT, an internationally renowned radio telescope research facility, necessitated a realignment to avoid interference with its operations.
Engineers from CR’s Pune division conducted extensive surveys and finalized the revised DPR, which is currently undergoing last-minute corrections. Officials confirmed that the report will be submitted to the Ministry of Railways within a week.
Enhanced Connectivity & Regional Development
Mohit Singh, Deputy Chief Engineer of CR’s Pune Division, stated, “Final revisions to the DPR are underway, and the document will soon be submitted to higher authorities. Once approved, the project will significantly enhance connectivity between key cities in Maharashtra and promote regional development.”
The new alignment bypasses the original route, which had already seen land acquisition in Nashik, Sinnar, and Shirdi. Despite demands from local residents and political representatives to retain the old alignment, authorities prioritized safeguarding the GMRT facility.
Project Details & Route Specifications
- The Pune-Ahilyanagar stretch will run parallel to the existing highway.
- A fresh alignment has been proposed for the Shirdi-Nashik segment.
- The total length of the new Pune-Nashik rail line will be approximately 235 km:
- Pune to Ahilyanagar: 125 km
- Shirdi to Nashik: 82 km
While the revised route may increase travel time by around 45 minutes compared to the older alignment, railway officials assure that the new path is technically sound and obstacle-free.
Political & Economic Significance
Dr. Amol Kolhe, Member of Parliament, emphasized the project’s feasibility, stating, “It is technically possible to construct the rail line either on elevated structures or through tunnels without disturbing the GMRT. This route holds industrial and agricultural significance, benefiting both job-seeking commuters and farmers.”
The semi high-speed rail corridor is expected to transform regional transportation, fostering tourism, trade, and industrial growth across Maharashtra.
