The Maharashtra government on Monday released Rs 1.5 billion to accelerate work on the Ahilyanagar–Beed–Parli Vaijnath broad-gauge railway line, taking total state funding to Rs 20.91 billion.

Deputy Chief Minister and Beed guardian minister Ajit Pawar described the allocation as a “special gesture” ahead of Marathwada Liberation Day on 17 September. The project, with an estimated total cost of Rs 40.85 billion, is considered a major driver for Beed district’s development, with the state bearing 50 per cent of the cost.

The 261-kilometre railway line is expected to significantly improve connectivity and meet the long-standing demand of millions of residents, with train services slated to begin on 17 September. The latest Rs 1.5 billion will be credited to the railways as the state’s share for the 2025-26 fiscal year.

Since taking charge as Beed guardian minister, Pawar has prioritised infrastructure projects, including airports, roads and railways, and his follow-ups with departments have helped fast-track this key rail project.