Sharad Pawar Requests Express Train Stops at Key Konkan Stations
NCP leader Sharad Pawar writes to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw requesting express trains to halt at Kudal, Kankavli, and Sawantwadi in the Konkan region to improve connectivity and promote tourism.
Mumbai, October 7, 2025 — Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Sharad Pawar has formally written to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, urging that select express trains include stops at key stations in the Konkan region. This request aims to improve accessibility for residents, tourists, and professionals, while promoting regional development and boosting tourism in Maharashtra’s coastal districts.
In his letter, Pawar emphasized that Sindhudurg district, recognized as India’s first tourism district, is home to scenic beaches, historic forts, and a rich cultural heritage. Despite its potential, many long-distance express trains currently bypass the district without stopping, creating difficulties for local residents, students, and travelers. Pawar requested that trains such as Konkan Kanya, Mandovi Express, Matsyagandha Express, and others be scheduled to halt at Kudal, Kankavli, and Sawantwadi stations, particularly during peak tourist seasons and major festivals including Ganesh Chaturthi, Dussehra, Diwali, Holi, New Year, and summer holidays.
Pawar stressed that these changes would not only enhance convenience for passengers but also contribute to the local economy by facilitating the transport of goods, handicrafts, and agricultural products. Additionally, it would enable smoother travel for tourists visiting popular beaches, forts, and cultural sites across Sindhudurg and surrounding districts, encouraging both domestic and international tourism.
Highlighting the broader benefits, Pawar stated that improving train accessibility would provide students, professionals, and patients with reliable travel options. It would also reduce travel time and costs for local residents who currently face challenges reaching larger urban centers via express trains. The move is expected to integrate the Konkan region more effectively with the state’s and nation’s broader transport network.
The letter also emphasizes that halts can initially be introduced on a trial basis to assess demand and passenger usage. If successful, these stops could become permanent, benefiting a growing number of travelers while fostering economic growth in coastal Maharashtra.
This request comes amid increasing demands from residents and local authorities to improve rail connectivity in the Konkan region, which has long been underserved in terms of express train access. Pawar’s intervention highlights the importance of balancing regional development with infrastructure planning and passenger convenience.
The NCP leader has urged Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to consider the proposal urgently, noting that timely action will enhance connectivity for thousands of daily passengers and boost tourism during festival seasons. The decision, once implemented, is expected to strengthen the region’s transport infrastructure and improve the quality of travel for residents and visitors alike.
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