Pune–Nashik Semi High-Speed Rail: Expert Panel to Study Alignment and Industrial Corridor, says CM Devendra Fadnavis
Pune, 26th February 2026: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday announced in the state legislature that an expert committee will be appointed to review the proposed Pune–Nashik semi high-speed railway route and its industrial corridor connectivity.
He said a decision to move the project to the next stage will be taken during the budget session.
The original rail alignment faced objections due to the presence of the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT), a globally significant scientific research facility. Following this, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw approved an alternative route via Ahilyanagar and Shirdi, cancelling the earlier proposal.
The change in alignment led to protests from local representatives and residents of Sinnar, Sangamner, and nearby areas. Demonstrations were held, and memorandums were submitted to the Union minister demanding reconsideration of the original route.
Raising the issue in the Assembly, MLA Satyajeet Tambe urged the government to respect public sentiment and review the decision from the perspective of regional development.
Fadnavis said the Detailed Project Report (DPR) was prepared by the Maharashtra Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd. (MahaRail) and sent to the Centre. However, the central government objected, stating that the GMRT project is important for 32 countries and cannot be relocated.
He added that although the route change was decided by the Centre, the state government will explore whether a buffer zone can be created to allow the rail line without affecting the GMRT facility. An expert advisory committee will be appointed and given three to four months to submit its report, after which a final decision will be taken.
