In a significant move to decongest one of Central India's busiest rail junctions, the Ajni railway station in Nagpur is set to take on a more prominent role. Central Railway has announced plans to introduce additional train services from Ajni within the next three to four months, a step aimed at easing traffic pressure on the Nagpur division.
New Platforms and Enhanced Role for Ajni
The expansion hinges on the completion of four new platforms currently under construction at Ajni. Vivek Kumar Gupta, the General Manager of Central Railway, stated that once these platforms are ready, the station will begin handling extra services. "The Nagpur and Ajni stations are undergoing major redevelopments, and in the coming months, Ajni will play a vital role in train movements," Gupta told reporters at the divisional railway manager's office in Nagpur.
Gupta emphasized that the redevelopment of both stations is being executed in phases with a sharp focus on passenger safety and ensuring operations continue without interruption. He provided an update on the Nagpur station work, noting, "Nearly 60% work at Nagpur station is complete. The elevated concourse foundation is in place, except for platforms 2 and 3, which will be finished soon."
Addressing Demand and Mega-Event Preparedness
A key driver for the infrastructure push is the growing demand on popular routes. Gupta specifically addressed the Nagpur-Pune route, confirming that the railway has received numerous requests for more services. "We are currently examining the feasibility of adding more trains," he said, signaling that increased frequency could be on the horizon.
In preparation for the massive influx of pilgrims expected for the upcoming Kumbh Mela in Nashik, Central Railway is making substantial investments. Gupta revealed that the railway will pump in around ₹1,500 crore to enhance passenger facilities, bolster safety measures, and improve operational efficiency for the mega event next year.
Long-Term Vision for Nagpur's Rail Infrastructure
The overarching redevelopment plan for Nagpur station, a critical junction, includes constructing an elevated concourse, upgrading passenger amenities, and creating better circulation areas to manage future growth in footfall. The parallel upgrade of Ajni station is strategically designed to act as a satellite facility, helping to decongest the main Nagpur station.
Gupta also highlighted ongoing capacity augmentation projects, such as the completion of stretches of the third line, which will improve train punctuality and allow more services to run in the future. He conducted a safety inspection of the Amla-Nagpur section, underscoring the railway's commitment to secure travel.
The press conference was attended by Nagpur Divisional Railway Manager Vinayak Garg and other senior Central Railway officials, marking a coordinated effort to transform the region's rail network.
