Centre to extend local trains services to Alibaug

Mumbai: Senior Shiv Sena leader and minister for heavy industries Anant Geete said that as the suburban section of railways is being developed between Nerul and Kharkopar, Raigad district has been added in the development plan. The Pen-Diva is being developed as a suburban section. The central railway (CR) has also laid down two lines till Roha.

In a month time, the services will ply between Pen and Roha resulting in connectivity of the suburban networks to Roha. He also said that a new line would be commissioned between Pen and Alibag.

The CR has prepared a plan and estimated budget for the same. The railway coach factory (RCF) has also approved the project. Union chemicals and fertilizers minister H.N. Ananth Kumar also gave a written permission to use existing RCF siding and railway lines to start passenger traffics.

“We will have to just start commissioning of the services on the lines,” said Mr Geete. He also thanked the railway minister for directing officers on the dais to give approval within a month time.

Through the upcoming line, Pen and Alibag would be connected. Alibag also falls into under the jurisdiction of MMRDA and hence the Vasai-Alibag corridor is being constructed. Wadkhal Road-Alibaug corridor is being expanded into four lanes with the help of Union road transport minister.

Mr Geete also informed that at the same time, MSRDC is also developing the Khopoli-Pali-Wakan corridor. Hence the entire region is being developed and Khark-opar would be the center of development due to its connectivity.