Rail line connecting Konkan and Western Maharashtra gets cabinet nod

As reported, the union cabinet announced its decision approving the development of the Vaibhavwadi-Kolhapur rail line which has been under demand for a long time since it will connect Konkan and Western Maharashtra.The project, which is set to cost about Rs 34.39 billion, is expected to be completed by the year 2023.Although the rail connectivity project was accepted by the government, an official decision had not been passed due to the model code of conduct for the Lok Sabha elections that were held in the first half of this year. Additionally, the rail line will be of high value to various districts in Maharashtra like Kolhapur, Sangli, Latur, Beed, and Osmanabad alongside areas in neighbouring states like Belagavi, Gulbargha and Ballari. Since it will pass through Sindhudurg, Ratnagiri and Kolhapur districts, the resulted increase in connectivity will in turn boost tourism, aid in the development of ports and harbours, including Jaigarh and Dighi ports, and will allow a steady flow of goods from the Konkan region.The responsibility to foresee and complete the venture has been handed down to the Konkan railways and a total amount of Rs 0.2 billion has been sanctioned in the current year by the Railway Board to begin the work.  The preliminary work of ground and satellite survey has already been completed by the Konkan Railway.