Pune: In a significant move to enhance connectivity to the proposed Purandar International Airport, a dedicated railway link from Rajewadi railway station to the airport has been proposed. This initiative is part of the Integrated Transport Plan for Pune city and district, aimed at streamlining multi-modal transport systems in the region.

The Integrated Transport Plan covers an area of 2,550 square kilometers, including Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA). The plan, which is set to be executed in three phases, requires a budget of ₹1.26 lakh crore.

Key components of the plan include:

• Expansion of metro corridors

• Strengthening of PMPML bus services

• Development of a Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) network

• Upgrading existing railway routes

• Traffic management initiatives at key railway stations, including Pune, Shivajinagar, Chinchwad, and Talegaon

New Rail Link to Improve Airport Accessibility

The Satara railway route has two stations near the proposed Purandar International Airport—Jejuri and Rajewadi. Among them, Rajewadi station is the closest to the airport. The plan recommends developing a separate spur railway line from Rajewadi to the airport, allowing direct rail access for passengers.

Additionally, the Pune-Lonavala railway route is set for expansion, which will enable better utilization of the outer railway bypass for improved traffic management.

Rail & Road Connectivity Enhancements

The transport plan also includes a railway bypass connecting Talegaon and Daund stations, to be built in two phases:

• Phase 1: Feeder railway service between Talegaon and Uruli Kanchan via Shikrapur

• Phase 2: New railway line from Shikrapur to Daund

• Additionally, a proposal has been made to convert Phursungi railway station into a passenger terminal and relocate it to Shindawane.

Improved Road Connectivity to the Airport

Alongside railway enhancements, the plan also prioritizes improved road connectivity to Purandar International Airport. Several key roadways will be upgraded, including:

• Hadapsar-Saswad via Dive Ghat

• Saswad-Bopdev road

• Uruli Kanchan-Jejuri road

• Saswad-Kapurhol-Bhor road

• Khed-Shivapur-Saswad link road

These integrated transport measures aim to create a seamless travel experience for passengers accessing the airport via rail and road networks.