Pune: Progress on the Third and Fourth Tracks of Pune-Lonavala Railway Line
After a period of stagnation, the expansion of the Pune-Lonavala railway route is finally moving forward with the construction of the third and fourth tracks. This project, initially announced in the fiscal year 2015-16 by the central government, aims to alleviate commuter congestion and enhance connectivity between rural and urban areas. The detailed Development Plan (DPR) was prepared, and subsequent budget provisions were made in 2017 to support this endeavor. Despite initial challenges and cost escalations—from an estimated Rs. 1600 crores to Rs. 2200 crores by 2022, and now to Rs. 5,100 crores—the project has secured 50% of its budget for commencement.
The project’s funding is a collaborative effort, with equal contributions from the Central Railway Department and the state government, including financial participation from Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporations.
Recent developments indicate that Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has given his approval, and a meeting with Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav is planned to discuss further steps. The commitment from both the central and state governments, along with efforts from Member of Parliament Srirang Barne, signifies a strong push towards timely completion. Barne has been instrumental in advocating for the allocation of funds and has been actively involved in discussions to expedite the project.
Additionally, the project encompasses significant technological advancements, such as the implementation of an Automatic Signalling System along the Pune-Lonavala line. This system aims to modernize and enhance the efficiency of the rail network, promising safer and more streamlined operations. The successful commissioning of a 10.18 km section between Chinchwad and Khadki, as part of a larger effort to cover a 54.35 km stretch with this system, marks a significant step towards this goal. The project is expected to reduce travel times and increase safety by incorporating advanced features like Auxiliary Warning Systems and Multi-section Digital Axle Counters for improved train headway and track vacancy detection.
This expansion not only aims to bolster the railway infrastructure but also to significantly improve the commute experience for thousands of passengers traveling between Pune and Lonavala. With these upgrades, the project is poised to make a substantial impact on the region’s transport capabilities and economic development.
