Mumbai-Pune Travel Time To Be Cut: Central Railway Explores New Route

Central Railway is actively exploring new possibilities to reduce travel time between Pune and Mumbai. The Indian Express recently reported that the railway authorities have initiated a survey to identify a less steep route, which would offer an alternative to the current path through the challenging Bhor Ghat.

This move comes after the Railway Board's approval of a project aimed at decreasing travel time by 20 to 30 minutes. However, the proposed route might be longer than the existing one.

Photo Credit: Facebook

Swapnil Neela, Chief Public Relations Officer of Central Railway told The Financial Express that the survey, which began five months ago, focuses on finding a lower gradient alignment.

The current railway alignment between Mumbai and Pune features a steep gradient of 1 in 37, which necessitates additional engine power to help trains ascend the slopes. The new route aims to reduce this gradient to 1 in 100, significantly easing the strain on locomotives.

Neela highlighted that the reduced gradient would minimise the need for extra banker locomotives, especially for passenger trains, when traversing the ghat section. This adjustment could lead to a smoother and faster journey, although banker engines might still be required for heavier goods trains.

He also noted that while the new route may be longer than the existing alignment, the overall travel time is expected to decrease. The ongoing survey will assess various route options, after which a final decision will be made on the most feasible alignment.

The current Pune-Mumbai railway route, which dates back to the mid-19th century, was a monumental achievement for the Great Indian Peninsula Railway (GIPR). The original engineers had to carve tunnels through the rugged terrain of the Bhor Ghat using the rudimentary tools available at that time.