Shirur MP Amol Kolhe has urged the central government to relocate the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) near Narayangaon in Pune district to facilitate the proposed Pune-Nashik semi high-speed rail project.

In a letter to Union Minister of Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh, Kolhe highlighted the developmental challenges posed by the GMRT’s presence, which has led to objections from scientists concerning the railway project.

In his letter, dated December 19, Kolhe stated, “The GMRT, established in 1996, is a prestigious scientific installation in my constituency. However, it has restricted industrial and infrastructure development in the region for nearly three decades. Issues such as delays in granting permissions for industries, disruptions in mobile connectivity, and hindrances to critical projects have emerged as major concerns. The Pune-Nashik railway line, a transformative project, has also been stalled due to GMRT-related objections.”

Kolhe proposed two solutions: "The GMRT authorities should find a technical resolution to ensure the railway project progresses or consider relocating the GMRT to a sparsely populated area free from developmental pressures."

The Pune-Nashik semi high-speed rail project, spanning 232 kilometres, is expected to reduce travel time between the two cities to one-and-a-half hours. However, it has faced delays. The route, which passes through Pune, Chakan, Rajgurunagar, Manchar, Narayangaon, Sangamner, Sinnar, and Nashik, is seen as a significant boost to industrial and agricultural growth in these districts. There has been speculation about realigning the route to include Pune, Shirdi, Sinnar, and Nashik.

A senior official from the Maharashtra Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (MAHARAIL) said, “Discussions are underway to finalise the alignment, taking GMRT-related concerns into account. This route will benefit Pune, Nashik, and surrounding areas.”

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed in October that the project remains on track. He stated, “The alignment must avoid electrification within 10 kilometres of the GMRT. A revised detailed project report (DPR) is being prepared to ensure there are no disruptions to the telescope’s operations.” He also mentioned plans to link Nashik and Shirdi, develop mega termini near Pune, and expand Pune station’s capacity.

The delays, however, have caused confusion among farmers whose land is to be acquired for the project. Compensation has been partially distributed, but the lack of progress has left them uncertain.