Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw is set to lay the foundation stone for a significant upgrade of Pune Railway Station on June 17. The project, valued at ₹473 crore, will focus on remodelling the Pune yard and constructing six new platforms, aiming to enhance the station’s operational capacity and passenger handling capabilities. Pune Junction is a vital railway hub on the Central Railway network, experiencing a daily movement of over 200 trains and serving more than 1.5 lakh passengers.
Major Infrastructure Overhaul at Pune Junction
Information available with The Chenab Times indicates that the current infrastructure at Pune Junction, which includes six main platforms, has limitations, particularly for longer trains. Only two of the existing platforms can accommodate mail and express trains with more than 22 coaches. The station currently has two entry and exit points and three foot overbridges. The planned expansion will introduce six new full-length platforms, numbered 7 through 12, and extend existing platforms 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 to accommodate trains with up to 26 coaches.
A key component of the yard remodelling involves the removal of the existing Double Diamond Slip (DDS) arrangement to facilitate more flexible train operations. Additionally, two up and down run-through reception and departure lines will be constructed to streamline train movements. To further alleviate congestion within the station area, a third additional line is planned between Hadapsar and the Ghorpadi Coaching Maintenance Complex (GCMC).
Enhanced Signalling and Passenger Amenities
The project also encompasses a substantial upgrade to the signalling infrastructure. This includes the commissioning of a new electronic interlocking system, along with a dedicated electronic interlocking building and three object controller buildings. These advancements are crucial for ensuring safe and efficient train operations. The plans also include the establishment of an electric loco shed for locomotive maintenance.
Passenger facilities are a significant focus of this redevelopment. The new platforms will feature comprehensive coverings, modern toilet blocks, accessible water stands, adequate seating arrangements, improved lighting, and fans. Enhanced signages and train indication boards are also part of the upgrade. A third station entry and exit point will be developed on the R.B. Mill Road side, which will include a booking office, ticket-checking facilities, a waiting room, and additional toilet blocks, further improving passenger convenience and access.
Strategic Importance and Future Readiness
The redevelopment of Pune Railway Station is seen as essential to meet the growing demand and improve operational efficiency, with passenger footfall projected to rise significantly in the coming years. The initiative aims to transform Pune into a future-ready mega terminal. While some redevelopment plans for Pune station have been discussed since 2016, and various projects under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme have been initiated, this comprehensive upgrade signifies a major step forward. Previous announcements in July 2024 and May 2025 highlighted phased redevelopment plans and the addition of new platforms, with a focus on integrating the city’s heritage. The current project, with its substantial investment, is poised to address the long-standing infrastructure needs of one of Maharashtra’s busiest railway stations.
The Chenab Times News Desk