Rail Relief: Kolhapur-Vaibhavwadi Line Gets ₹3,244 Cr Infusion

The Centre has allocated Rs 3,244 crore for the long-pending Kolhapur–Vaibhavwadi railway project, Minister for Fisheries and Port Development Nitesh Rane announced. He added that the state government is expected to contribute an equal amount in its upcoming Budget.

The 106-km railway line, with an estimated total cost of Rs 6,500 crore, will be jointly funded by the Centre and the state. The project will feature 10 stations, 26 tunnels, and five flyovers, providing a direct rail link between Kolhapur and Vaibhavwadi while significantly enhancing regional connectivity and supporting port-related development.

Originally approved in the Union Budget of 2016, the project had remained stalled for several years. The Minister said renewed coordination with District Collectors and the state Railway Board has helped revive progress.

“The Centre has made a provision of Rs 3,244 crore for the Kolhapur–Vaibhavwadi railway route. Land acquisition will begin once the code of conduct for the Zilla Parishad elections is lifted, and the state government will also provide a matching amount in its Budget,” Rane said.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.