Indian Railways Allocates Rs 1,200 Crore for Nashik Station Upgrades Ahead of Simhastha Kumbh Mela
In a major infrastructure push, the Indian Railways is investing a substantial Rs 1,200 crore to enhance passenger facilities at five key railway stations in the Nashik region. This initiative is specifically timed for the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela, with Divisional Railway Manager Punit Agrawal highlighting that the upgrades will create lasting benefits for both the railways and passengers long after the event concludes.
Comprehensive Infrastructure Overhaul at Five Stations
The massive investment targets Devlali, Nashik Road, Odha, Kasbe-Sukene, and Kherwadi (Niphad) stations. The comprehensive upgrade includes:
- Construction of new foot over bridges to improve passenger flow and safety.
- Widening and lengthening of platforms to accommodate larger crowds and longer trains.
- Addition of loop lines to enhance operational efficiency.
- Implementation of automatic signalling systems to modernize rail operations.
- Building new pitlines for maintenance and remodelling the network to support automation.
According to DRM Punit Agrawal, these improvements are designed to significantly reduce the need for human intervention, streamlining operations and enhancing reliability. "A large part of the infrastructure being created is here to stay," Agrawal stated, noting that while some temporary elements will handle the pilgrim influx during the Kumbh Mela, the core upgrades are permanent.
War-Footing Construction for Timely Completion
The railway authorities are working on a war footing to ensure all infrastructure is ready in time for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela. Agrawal emphasized, "The construction works are going on on a war footing to ensure the entire infrastructure is ready in time." This urgency underscores the strategic importance of the event, which is expected to draw millions of pilgrims.
Strategic Pilgrim Management Plan
A detailed plan has been formulated in coordination with state machinery to manage the massive pilgrim movement. Special trains from Bhusawal will terminate at Odha, Kasbe-Sukene, and Kherwadi stations, while those from Mumbai will end at Devlali station. Pilgrims will then be handed over to state authorities for their onward journey to Nashik and Trimbakeshwar for the sacred Amrit Snan.
Agrawal explained, "With the state machinery, the plans are ready for receiving the pilgrims, holding them outside the respective stations, and then handing them over for further journey." For the return trip, pilgrims will be received in designated holding areas outside stations before being allowed inside, ensuring orderly and safe transit.
Long-Term Benefits Beyond the Kumbh Mela
The infrastructure upgrades are not just for the Kumbh Mela; they are set to provide long-term advantages. Agrawal revealed that the Railways plans to utilize this enhanced infrastructure for future train movements and improved connectivity. "The Railways will decide and put to use the infrastructure for the movement of new trains and connecting Nashik Road and adjoining stations to various locations across the country in due course," he said.
This forward-thinking approach means that the Rs 1,200 crore investment will boost regional connectivity, support economic growth, and offer passengers a more efficient and comfortable travel experience well into the future.
