India, May 4 -- Union railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Saturday that the new railway alignment for the Pune-Nashik route has been finalised and awaiting approval from the Maharashtra government. The realignment has been carefully planned to avoid any interference with the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT), a global astronomical observatory supported by 23 nations.

"GMRT is a crucial scientific institution, and we cannot allow any electrical interference to disrupt its work, as it would hinder human progress. We have prepared an alternate plan, and once the state government grants permission, work will begin. Detailed information about the new alignment will be shared after approval," he said.

GMRT is located in Khodad...