3 days ago
‘It's due for a long time': passengers' association from Jejuri demand renaming of Mumbai-Kolhapur Vande Bharat Express
Passenger groups from Jejuri in Maharashtra's Pune district Thursday demanded that the Mumbai-Kolhapur Vande Bharat Express be renamed to honour the city's spiritual importance, and given a halt at the railway station in the temple town.
Jejuri is a significant pilgrimage site in Maharashtra, renowned for the Khandoba Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Khandoba, a form of Lord Shiva.
'We already have Mahalaxmi Express and Balaji Express pertaining to the specific religious places. And our demand also includes that the Jejuri railway station be included in the Amrit Bharat Railway Station development project,' said Vijay Khomane, president, Jejuri Railway Passengers Association.
'Jejuri is home to the famous Khandoba temple, which attracts devotees from Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and other states. The temple also draws massive crowds during festivals, particularly during Vijayadashami when devotees gather to witness the traditional 42-kg sword competition. So, the railway station deserves better connectivity and recognition, and is due for a long time,' said Khomane.
The demand has received backing from local organisations, including representatives from various community groups, religious trusts, and political parties such as the BJP, Shiv Sena, Congress, and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), among others.
Jejuri also serves as a stopover point for devotees participating in the Pandharpur Wari pilgrimage. Beyond its religious significance, Jejuri is witnessing the emergence of new industries and agricultural exports, particularly figs and custard apples.
Amol Shewale, vice president of the Jejuri Railway Passengers Association, said, 'Jejuri is experiencing rapid development. An international airport is being planned in the Jejurigad Panchkroshi area, and the industrial sector is expanding. This pace of growth needs better railway connectivity and infrastructure.'
'We are not asking for too much. Proper recognition of our town's importance through improved train connectivity and renaming. Our demands are fair, and we request that the Railway authorities prioritise this matter. Else, we will be carrying out a rail blockade if our demands are not met,' added Shewale.
The Mumbai-Kolhapur Vande Bharat Express runs every day of the week, except Tuesday. The stops between Mumbai and Kolhapur are Dadar, Kalyan, Pune, Satara, Karad and Miraj.
(Shubham Kurale is an intern with The Indian Express)
