Pune: The Konkan Railway Corporation has successfully completed the survey for two new railway tracks along the Pune-Solapur-Wadi route. The new third and fourth railway lines will run parallel to the existing tracks, significantly improving rail traffic capacity and reducing delays. According to railway officials, the project will require an estimated investment of ₹15,000 crore.
Currently, the 412 km-long Pune-Wadi section handles over 100 passenger trains daily, while 60 freight trains operate between Solapur and Wadi. The presence of major thermal power plants in Hotgi and Kudgi, managed by NTPC, has led to a surge in coal transportation, causing increased freight traffic. This has affected passenger train schedules, leading the Railway Board to propose additional tracks to ease congestion.
Once the project receives final approval, the Central Railway’s construction department will undertake the work. Meanwhile, Solapur railway yard will also undergo remodeling to accommodate the increased train operations.
Passenger Benefits and Project Scope
The new tracks will allow more trains to run between Pune and Wadi, benefiting both passengers and freight operators.
Travel time will be significantly reduced as trains will no longer have to wait for crossings or halt at loop lines at smaller stations.
The new tracks will be connected to existing railway yards after every four stations, improving operational efficiency.
Cost Estimation and Survey Process
The project involved a detailed project report (DPR) survey, which is crucial for obtaining approval for new railway lines. Railway officials provided the following cost estimates:
The survey cost was approximately ₹2 lakh per kilometer.
The cost of laying one kilometer of railway track is estimated at ₹20 crore.
Expansion Plans Under National Railway Plan (NRP)
The Railway Board has introduced the National Railway Plan (NRP) to expand railway infrastructure across critical routes by 2030.
The Pune-Wadi route is part of this plan, ensuring that railway services can meet the increasing demand for passenger and freight transportation.
