Konkan Railway Set To Merge With Indian Railways; Maharashtra Gives Green Signal With Key Conditions

Mumbai: The long-awaited merger of the Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL) with Indian Railways reportedly moved a step closer to completion, with the Maharashtra government giving its formal approval. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis recently communicated the decision in a letter to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, clearing the path for the integration of the strategic coastal railway network into the national railway system.

This move aims to resolve the financial and operational constraints that have hindered the growth of KRCL. The merger had already received the consent of other key stakeholders, Karnataka, Goa, and Kerala, and Maharashtra's approval was the final piece needed to proceed.

However, Maharashtra has laid down two conditions for its support. First, the Indian Railways must retain the iconic name "Konkan Railway" even after the merger. Second, it must reimburse the state government over Rs 394 crore, which was contributed during the formation of KRCL in 1990. KRCL was established as a joint venture between the Ministry of Railways, which holds a 51% stake, and the four coastal states, Maharashtra (22%), Karnataka (15%) and Goa and Kerala (6% each).

CM Fadnavis Speaks On Key Merger

Chief Minister Fadnavis stated that the limited financial resources of KRCL as an independent company were proving insufficient to meet rising infrastructure demands. “Since the ability of Konkan Railway as a separate company is limited and its infrastructure requirements are very high, it was important that it gets the share from the huge investment portfolio of Indian Railways,” he said as quoted by Hindustan Times.

He further noted that the merger would lead to improvements in passenger safety, service quality and network expansion. “It will help in adding more railway lines, expanding the network, and introducing additional services on this route,” Fadnavis stated.

The railway ministry, in response, agreed to retain the original identity of the Konkan Railway, which Fadnavis termed as a major reassurance. “The best thing is it will remain known as Konkan Railway,” he said.

Legacy Of Konkan Railway

Spanning 741 kilometers, the Konkan Railway is one of India’s most picturesque rail routes, connecting Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka and Kerala. Known for its stunning coastal and mountainous terrain, the line is vital for both passenger and freight movement. Since its first passenger service between Udupi and Mangalore in 1993, it has become a key route for trains operated by Indian Railways. The merger is expected to majorly boost the region’s connectivity and economic development.

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