Maharashtra Set to Introduce Circuit Train for Exploring Historic Forts and Cultural Landmarks: CM Fadnavis
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Synopsis
Maharashtra's CM Devendra Fadnavis announced the launch of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit Train, a high-speed service for a 10-day tour of historical forts and cultural sites. The state is also seeing significant railway investments, with projects worth Rs 1.73 lakh crore in development.
Key Takeaways
- Launch of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit Train.
- 10-day tours connecting historical sites.
- Rs 1.73 lakh crore in railway projects in Maharashtra.
- Annual railway budget allocations significantly increased.
- Development of 132 railway stations, including the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus.
Mumbai, April 11 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, alongside Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, announced on Friday the upcoming launch of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit, a high-speed train designed for exploring the state's rich historical forts and cultural landmarks.
According to the Chief Minister, travelers will have the opportunity to embark on a 10-day journey aboard this circuit train.
"The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit Train will soon commence operations. It is set to become an iconic service. This 10-day tour will connect various forts, significant sites, and cultural locations associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj," stated CM Fadnavis.
During a joint press briefing, he further revealed that railway projects valued at Rs 1.73 lakh crore are currently under development in Maharashtra, with works worth Rs 17,000 crore already in progress across Mumbai and surrounding regions.
CM Fadnavis also mentioned that the state has been allocated Rs 23,778 crore in the railway budget for the year 2025-26, a significant increase compared to the Rs 10,000 crore received during the decade-long UPA rule.
In contrast, the present BJP-led government at the Center has consistently provided an annual allotment ranging from Rs 23,000 to 25,000 crore to the state.
Union Minister Vaishnaw highlighted that projects worth Rs 1.73 lakh crore related to Maharashtra, including the bullet train, various corridors, and station redevelopments, have received approval.
"To support these significant projects, annual funding is essential; hence, you may have noticed the allocation of Rs 23,778 crore in the Union Budget," he added.
He further remarked, "During the tenure of the INDIA bloc, formerly known as the UPA, only Rs 1,171 crore was allocated to Maharashtra, while PM Modi has ensured the state receives at least 20 times more, which will revolutionize Maharashtra's rail network."
CM Fadnavis noted, "Trade in Vidarbha with Chhattisgarh and Telangana is poised to grow. The Central government has allocated Rs 4,819 crore for the doubling of the Gondia-Balharshah railway line, which will significantly benefit those in Vidarbha. This line is strategic as it links Gondia to both Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, extending to Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
Union Minister Vaishnaw emphasized the various corridor projects and the redevelopment of stations, including those between Balharshah-Gondia and Jalna-Jalgaon.
He mentioned, "PM Modi has recently approved the 240 km doubling project for Balharshah-Gondia, which has been allocated Rs 4,819 crore."
CM Fadnavis confirmed that 132 railway stations are undergoing development across Maharashtra, including the prestigious Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus.
