Double Delight: Pune-Satara Rail Line Ready for Action

Central Railways has completed the long-awaited doubling of the Pune–Satara railway line, spanning 145 km, marking a major milestone in regional rail infrastructure development. Pune Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Rajeshkumar Verma confirmed that the Commissioner of Railway Safety conducted a final inspection and granted safety clearance on June 17.

Trial runs and technical inspections are scheduled to begin shortly, paving the way for the commencement of regular operations on the upgraded double-track route. Initially sanctioned at ₹2,480 crore, the project experienced delays over its eight-year timeline, ultimately pushing the cost to nearly ₹4,800 crore. As part of the broader effort, a total of 280 km of railway lines have now been doubled under the project scope.

The line’s doubling is expected to significantly reduce delays, improve punctuality, and enhance scheduling predictability for both passenger and freight services. Regular commuter Kishore Marne shared, “The delays from the single-line track were a constant hassle. With this upgrade, I’m hopeful for more reliable and timely services.”

The Pune–Satara section is a key rail corridor in Maharashtra, and its modernization is poised to support increased traffic capacity, boost regional economic activity, and improve overall rail network efficiency.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.