More local trains in sight on new track to Lonavla

23/2/2019

PUNE: The number of local trains between Pune and Lonavla is set to increase soon with a new track coming up to connect Shivajinagar to the Lonavla.

“The Shivajinagar station has been upgraded with new facilities for passengers. New railways tracks will be laid between the stations in Shivajinagar and Lonavla. Once the new tracks become operational, the number of local trains between the two destinations will increase,” an official of the Central Railway’s Pune division said.

The official said the trains between Pune and Lonavla and Pune and Talegaon witness huge crowd daily. At present, two local trains run between Pune and Lonavla. On the other hand, three trains run between Pune and Talegaon.

“All these trains are daily availed of by several passengers. There’s a need to increase the number of the trains. The new line, which will be built at Rs 2.50 crore, will be of much benefit. We hope to finish the project by June, following which more local trains can be introduce on the Pune-Lonavla route. The number of the new trains will be decided soon,” the official said.

On the new services at the Shivajinagar station, the official said the circulating area of the facility has been provided with a fresh look. The illumination at the station has also been improved. “The new circulating area of the station looks much better now. It will also be a spot of attraction for people willing to take selfies. The two footbridges at the station have also been improved in terms of the width and look. The railways has been emphasizing on proper lights at all stations. We have taken all efforts to improve the illumination system at the Shivajinagar station,” the official said.

As many as 62 trains currently originate from the Pune station. “With the Shivajinagar station being developed, some more trains can be shifted to the facility. This will reduce much pressure on the Pune station. A new local train with 15 compartments to Lonavla is likely to start from the station by August,” the official said.