Massive Protests Erupt in Nashik Over Proposed Changes to Pune-Nashik Rail Route

Protests Against Rail Route Changes in Nashik

On August 9, thousands of residents in various areas of Nashik district, Maharashtra, took to the streets to demand that the original route of the proposed Nashik-Pune semi-high-speed rail line remain unchanged. The demonstrations caused significant traffic disruptions on the highways, with a large number of young people participating. Police detained local legislative council member Satyajit Tambe and several protesters who were leading the demonstration on the highway in Sinnar.

Tensions escalated when some protesters attempted to block the police vehicle transporting Tambe, leading to heated exchanges. Former minister and Congress leader Balasaheb Thorat, along with Nashik MP Rajabhau Waje, also joined the protests. The controversy surrounding the Nashik-Pune rail line primarily revolves around the proposal to cancel the direct and shorter route that passes through Narayangaon and Sangamner.

This decision was made due to concerns that the new route could interfere with the technical signals of the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) located in Pune district. Instead, the government has proposed rerouting through Ahilyanagar and Shirdi, which has sparked significant local opposition. In response, the Maharashtra government has formed a committee led by former chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, Anil Kakodkar, to study the potential impact of the Pune-Nashik semi-high-speed railway alignment on the GMRT.

During the protests, Maharashtra's Disaster Management Minister Girish Mahajan spoke with Tambe over the phone. Despite assurances reportedly given by Mahajan, police prevented Tambe and other protesters from proceeding towards the Prosperity Highway. Tambe emphasized that this movement is not affiliated with any political party but is a public initiative based on long-standing demands from the community.

The construction of the Nashik-Pune rail line should adhere to the originally proposed route. We will not accept any attempts to change the route due to external pressures or for any other reasons.