Nagpur is set to receive 13 new rail infrastructure projects as the Maharashtra Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation (MahaRail) advances a statewide initiative to eliminate railway level crossings and enhance urban mobility. These projects are part of a broader plan encompassing 80 rail infrastructure works proposed across major cities in Maharashtra. The proposals were reviewed during a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday.
Scope of Projects
While specific locations and technical details are yet to be announced, the projects are expected to include railway overbridges (ROBs), underpasses, and pedestrian facilities. These structures aim to improve connectivity and ease movement across Nagpur. The works will be executed by MahaRail under the leadership of Managing Director Rajesh Kumar Jaiswal.
Chief Minister's Directives
During the meeting, Fadnavis directed officials to work towards a "railway crossing-free Maharashtra" by prioritizing projects that eliminate level crossings and ensure safer movement for vehicles and pedestrians. He instructed MahaRail to prioritize projects based on traffic demand and feasibility, particularly those requiring minimal land acquisition. Additionally, he directed officials to secure low-interest funding from HUDCO through a dedicated mechanism and expedite MahaRail's transition under the Public Works Department.
Impact on Nagpur's Transport Network
The proposed projects are expected to strengthen Nagpur's transport network, reduce delays at railway crossings, and support the city's growing urban footprint. Fadnavis emphasized that infrastructure planning must account for future urban expansion rather than existing traffic volumes. He directed the formation of committees comprising municipal commissioners and district collectors to assess the necessity of proposed works before they are taken up by MahaRail. The objective, he said, is to create infrastructure ahead of demand rather than respond to congestion after it emerges.
Addressing Potential Bottlenecks
Referring to Nagpur, the chief minister warned that increasing vehicle numbers could create bottlenecks at junctions linked to recently constructed flyovers. He directed authorities to identify vulnerable locations and implement corrective measures to prevent future congestion. The Times of India had earlier highlighted the possibility of traffic bottlenecks developing around some flyovers being constructed by MahaRail.
Additional Project on Amravati-Badnera Route
Fadnavis also called for the construction of a new railway overbridge on the Amravati-Badnera route to replace an ageing structure. This move is expected to improve traffic flow and commuter safety.
