Pune: Senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and Maharashtra minister Chhagan Bhujbal is making fresh efforts to revive the original alignment of the long-delayed Pune-Nashik semi high-speed railway corridor. The project has faced years of uncertainty due to route disputes, especially near the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT).
Bhujbal recently held discussions with officials from the Maharashtra Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (Maharail), followed by a meeting with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. During these meetings, he urged a return to the corridor’s initially proposed route, with a slight deviation to accommodate scientific concerns.
The original 236-km alignment — connecting Pune, Chakan, Rajgurunagar, Manchar, Narayangaon, Sangamner, Sinnar, and Nashik — has been on hold following objections from the National Centre for Radio Astrophysics (NCRA). The GMRT, located near Narayangaon, raised alarms over potential electromagnetic interference from the railway’s pantograph system.
In response to these concerns, the railway ministry suggested a new alignment in December 2024, diverting the route via Ahilyanagar and Shirdi. This alternative bypasses the GMRT but adds nearly 80 km to the journey. Bhujbal has opposed this revised route, citing reduced efficiency and economic viability.
To address the GMRT’s concerns without significantly impacting the project’s scope, Bhujbal has proposed two alternatives: either a tunnel near the observatory — previously dismissed due to high costs — or a shorter 15-km diversion that avoids the most sensitive area. He also suggested establishing a separate rail link to Shirdi to maintain connectivity without affecting the main corridor.
“The initial route is crucial for enhancing industrial and logistical connections, particularly in light of developments like the Vadhavan port,” Bhujbal said, stressing the urgency of completing the project before the 2027–28 Kumbh Mela.
Originally approved by NITI Aayog in 2020, the ₹16,039 crore project is to be funded through a combination of loans (60%) and equity (40%). However, it still awaits final clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs.
Chief Minister Fadnavis acknowledged the importance of preserving the observatory’s integrity. “Due to the presence of a globally significant scientific facility backed by 32 nations, the alignment change is necessary. The new route includes Shirdi and ensures technical safety,” he stated.
The Chief Minister’s Office has been tasked with reviewing both the railway ministry’s proposal and Bhujbal’s alternatives. A conclusive decision will follow a thorough assessment by the state government.
