The Pune Railway Division has put forward an ambitious proposal to the Railway Board, aiming to expand Pune railway station by adding four new platforms. These platforms are planned for construction in the Maldhakka region, utilizing available railway land. This expansion, if approved, will also incorporate additional stoppages for five express trains at alternate stations to alleviate congestion at Pune station.

Currently operating with six platforms and no room for further extension, Pune station faces significant congestion. Indu Rani Dubey, Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of Pune Division, highlighted the availability of ample land in the Maldhakka area, making it feasible to expand. The proposal includes building pedestrian bridges to facilitate this growth.

?This proposal, once approved, will be integrated into the station?s broader remodelling project,? Dubey stated. ?We have submitted it to headquarters, which will then forward it to the Railway Board.?

The plan also addresses the current inconvenience for suburban commuters. Trains heading towards Daund will now stop at Hadapsar, and those bound for Mumbai will halt at Shivajinagar, Chinchwad, and Talegaon. This change is expected to benefit the daily traffic of around one lakh passengers, easing congestion at Pune station.

Express trains like Azad Hind, Jammu Tawi, Jhelum, Sinhagad, and Pragati will see new stoppages as part of this proposal. Currently, these trains start and terminate at Pune, causing significant commuter traffic from suburban regions to converge at the station. This initiative aims to resolve these congestion issues, providing a smoother travel experience for all passengers.

The proposal marks a significant step towards improving the infrastructure and service quality at Pune railway station, addressing both current and future needs of the rapidly growing city.