Indian Railways has finalized the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for a semi-high-speed rail corridor connecting Pune, Ahilyanagar, Shirdi, and Nashik. The project aims to improve transportation and strengthen economic connections in Maharashtra. Central Railway officials are set to submit the DPR to the Railway Ministry for review.

The new route spans 235 kilometers, following the Pune-Ahilyanagar highway and introducing a new path from Shirdi to Nashik, avoiding disruption to the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) in Khodad. While the revised route adds 45 minutes to the journey between Pune and Nashik, it ensures safety standards and bypasses significant obstacles. The line will feature 24 stations and is designed for 200 km/h speeds. The project is estimated to cost IDR16,000 crore, with construction expected to take three and a half years.