Maha Metro proposes ₹14,520 crore, 58-km Light Metro Rail Network for Nashik

The proposal forms part of Nashik’s draft Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP) and envisages the development of three metro corridors in two phases. The plan is aimed at meeting Nashik’s mobility requirements over the next two decades as the city’s population, economic activity and travel demand continue to expand.

Maha Metro has identified the proposed corridors as suitable for a Light Metro system. However, the final mode and alignment will be determined after detailed feasibility studies, stakeholder consultations and completion of the necessary statutory procedures.

Three corridors planned under Nashik Light Metro network

Under the proposed plan, Phase I will comprise two corridors covering approximately 35 km. The first and potentially earliest corridor will connect Gangapur Village with Nashik Road, covering 21.5 km. The corridor has been identified for implementation with a target timeline of 2031.

The second Phase I corridor will connect Mumbai Naka with Pathardi Phata over a distance of 13.58 km, with the CMP targeting completion by 2036.

Together, the two Phase I corridors are estimated to require an investment of around ₹8,770 crore. Maha Metro estimates that each corridor could handle nearly 11,000 passengers per hour in the peak direction, indicating the potential demand for a higher-capacity public transport system.

Phase II to provide Nashik Airport connectivity

The proposed Phase II will add another 23 km to the network through the Ambad–Nashik Airport corridor. The project is estimated to cost around ₹5,750 crore, with implementation targeted for 2046 under the draft mobility plan.

The airport corridor is expected to provide a direct mass-transit connection to one of Nashik’s important transport hubs while supporting future development in Ambad and surrounding areas.

Nashik’s new mass-transit plan after Neo Metro proposal

The latest Light Metro proposal comes after Maha Metro undertook a fresh assessment of Nashik’s mobility requirements.

Nashik had earlier been proposed for a Neo Metro system, which was announced by the Centre in the Union Budget 2021-22 with an allocation of ₹2,092 crore. However, the proposal was subsequently dropped.

Following a review meeting held in connection with preparations for the Kumbh Mela in April 2025, officials were advised to examine successful public transport systems adopted in cities across the world rather than continuing with the earlier Neo Metro approach. Maha Metro subsequently conducted a fresh mobility survey to reassess travel demand and future transport requirements in Nashik.

Draft CMP now under stakeholder review

Maha Metro has shared the draft Comprehensive Mobility Plan with stakeholders and invited their suggestions. The feedback is currently being examined and incorporated into the document.

The final CMP is expected to be submitted to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in September for consideration and approval.

Officials have indicated that the three identified corridors have the potential to support a Light Metro system. However, the final decision will depend on the outcome of the mobility assessment, stakeholder consultations, updated population and travel-demand data, and detailed feasibility studies.

If implemented, the proposed 58-km Nashik Light Metro network could establish the foundation for a long-term rapid transit system, connecting major residential, commercial, industrial and transport hubs while supporting the city’s future urban expansion.