The Indian Railways is set to acquire land from at least 45 villages across Nashik and Thane districts to construct the third and fourth railway tracks between Kasara and Manmad, covering a distance of 140 km.

The acquisition process, overseen by the deputy collector, will involve land surveys, joint management, and evaluation, following the deposit of requisite funds by the railways. On the Mumbai side, track construction between Kalyan and Kasara is underway, while on the Bhusawal side, work is progressing between Jalgaon and Manmad. Kasara-Manmad currently represents a critical missing link, and the new tracks are expected to improve train connectivity with Mumbai and enhance freight movement to ports.

The land acquisition spans four villages in Igatpuri taluka, 16 in Nashik, 17 in Niphad, seven in Chandwad, and one in Nandgaon. Presently, the existing track operates at 138 percent capacity, carrying about 75 trains per direction daily, leaving little room for maintenance. Completion of the project, already submitted to the Railway Board, will significantly improve train operations in the region.