CM approves 65 projects to make Maharashtra level crossing-free
CM Approves 65 Projects to Make Maharashtra Level Crossing-Free
CM approves 65 projects to make – Mumbai: Devendra Fadnavis, the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, has greenlit 65 out of 131 railway infrastructure projects aimed at eliminating level crossings throughout the state. During a meeting with the Maharashtra Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation (MahaRail), Fadnavis emphasized prioritizing those projects on high-traffic roads with minimal land requirements.
Focus on Safety and Connectivity
The approved projects encompass railway overbridges, pedestrian bridges, and underpasses, all under the jurisdiction of the Public Works and Urban Development Departments. Officials involved in the discussions noted that detailed talks on these initiatives took place during Monday’s session.
Fadnavis stated to officials, “There should be no railway level crossings anywhere in Maharashtra. We must develop infrastructure to attain a level crossing-free state, particularly in rapidly urbanizing regions near railway lines in major metropolitan areas.”
Benefits of Modern Infrastructure
Rajesh Kumar Jaiswal, Managing Director of MahaRail, highlighted that removing level crossings and building modern infrastructure would boost road safety, enhance mobility, alleviate congestion, and ensure smooth connectivity.
Following the meeting, MahaRail stated, “A comprehensive survey over the past six months revealed 80 locations across the state where railway crossings are absent but require ROBs, RUBs, and FOBs to enhance road connectivity and reduce traffic congestion. These developments will address network gaps, improve traffic flow, save fuel, and boost mobility for both commuters and freight.”
Fadnavis cautioned that traffic congestion may threaten intersections linked to Nagpur’s flyovers due to rising vehicle numbers, urging officials to implement preventive steps. He also emphasized the need for a new railway overbridge on the Amravati–Badnera Road, replacing the existing one.
The Chief Minister ordered MahaRail to implement projects in stages, securing funds via HUDCO. Additionally, he tasked HUDCO with finding cost-effective financing options to cut borrowing expenses and reduce interest rates for the state.
Jaiswal presented a breakdown of the 80 approved projects. The distribution includes 17 in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, 15 in Pune, 13 in Nagpur, five each in Nashik and Amravati, four in Sangli, three each in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Dhule, Kolhapur, Latur, and Parbhani, two each in Solapur and Jalgaon, and one each in Ahilyangar and Nanded.