The Pune-Bhigwan railway corridor is set to undergo a major upgrade with the installation of an automatic signalling system, expected to improve efficiency and reduce travel time.

Preparatory work has already begun, and the 160-km stretch is slated for completion by 2027. The new system will eliminate the need for manual signal clearance, allowing multiple trains to run safely on the same track. "The installation will include high-grade signalling cables, modern electronic equipment, and updated track-side systems designed to support higher traffic density," said a senior railway official. The current system, which uses a conventional two-signal mechanism, often causes delays due to limited capacity, especially with growing passenger and freight traffic.

The automatic system will update signals in real-time, ensuring smoother operations. The upgrade promises to enhance punctuality, reduce human error, and improve safety, benefiting thousands of daily commuters and easing congestion, particularly during peak hours. The project is expected to transform one of the busiest routes in Pune’s railway division.