Maharashtra Railways Minister Raosaheb Danve announced that a Vande Bharat train service will soon be launched from Kolhapur. The inauguration of a new Mahalakshmi Express train service, running on the Kolhapur to Mumbai route, was conducted by Danve through a virtual ceremony. This new service features LHB coaches and was launched...
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at the Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj Terminus. Present at the ceremony were MP Dhananjay Mahadik, Dhairyasheel Mane, Sanjay Mandalik, Guardian Minister Hasan Mushrif, and Divisional Manager Indu Dubey. Danve also confirmed that a DPR has been prepared for an 8-kilometer road survey from Hatkanangle to Ichalkaranji, and work is expected to begin soon. MP Dhananjay Mahadik mentioned that the MPs had collectively advocated for railway improvements and that Danve's initiation of the Mahalakshmi Express was a result of their efforts. The MPs also highlighted that the Vande Bharat train, expected to commence operations within two months, will significantly contribute to the region's development. The introduction of the Sahyadri Express, which will operate to Mumbai, was also anticipated. MP Sanjay Mandalik requested the Railway Minister to launch a Kolhapur to Ayodhya Express train, enabling Kolhapur residents to visit the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Additionally, a lift at the railway station was inaugurated during the event.