Pune's Rail Future: New Trains, Station Upgrades, and Corridor Clarity

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has confirmed that the realignment of the Pune-Nashik railway corridor is in its final stages and is pending approval from the Maharashtra government. The initial route had sparked concerns due to its proximity to the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) at Khodad village near Narayangaon, about 80 km from Pune. The GMRT, an internationally significant scientific facility operating in the 150-1420 MHz range with 30 large antennas, could face operational disruptions due to radio interference.

Highlighting GMRT’s global scientific importance—with participation from 23 countries—the Minister stated that the revised alignment is being carefully designed to avoid any impact on the observatory. Work on the project will begin once the state grants clearance.

Vaishnaw also announced redevelopment plans for six key railway stations in and around Pune—Pune, Hadapsar, Khadki, Shivajinagar, Uruli Kanchan, and Alandi—which are in the final planning stages. Speaking at Hadapsar after flagging off two new express trains (Hadapsar-Jodhpur Express and MGR Chennai Central–Bhagat Ki Kothi Express), he also noted ongoing discussions with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis regarding the launch of a Vande Bharat train between Pune and Nashik.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.