-owned land, free of charge, to the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA). Special Correspondent
Pune: The Maharashtra state government has approved the allocation of government-owned land, free of charge, to the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA). This move is set to accelerate critical urban projects and improve city connectivity. In addition, the necessary approvals for structural planning have been granted, ensuring that Pune’s development is well-organized and ready for the future.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed the swift completion of pending recruitment processes by regularizing deputed posts, bolstering the workforce needed for efficient project execution. He stressed the importance of bringing in top-tier consulting agencies to guide the planning and implementation phases.
Underground Tunnel Project for Better Connectivity
At a high-level meeting held at the Sahyadri Guest House, Chief Minister Fadnavis instructed PMRDA to expedite the proposal for an underground twin tunnel project connecting Yerwada to Katraj. This initiative is aimed at reducing traffic congestion and improving the city’s transportation network. The tunnel will utilize advanced technology to ensure sustainability and operational efficiency.
Major Infrastructure Funding Allocated
In the same meeting, substantial investments in infrastructure development were approved. The state government allocated Rs. 636.84 crore for the road network leading to the new Purandar airport. Additionally, Rs. 203 crore was designated for cement roads in Ranjangaon and Hinjawadi industrial areas, while Rs. 1,526 crore was approved for road development under the ‘Urban Growth Center’ initiative. To further improve connectivity, the Chief Minister also instructed authorities to ensure smooth access between Purandar Airport and major highways, including the Pune bypass, Pune-Satara Road, and Pune-Nagar Road.
Plans for Sustainable Urban Development
As part of the city’s long-term growth strategy, authorities have been instructed to design all new roads with a minimum width of 18 meters to accommodate future population growth. Key infrastructure, including water supply, sewage systems, electricity, crematoriums, and burial grounds, will be prioritized in the initial phase of development, with additional amenities planned for later stagesChief Minister Devendra Fadnavis
The Chief Minister also directed PMRDA to accelerate water supply projects and revamp the PMRDA website to offer more comprehensive online services. Additionally, efforts will be made to keep development charges affordable to minimize the financial burden on citizens.
Public Transport Improvements and Sustainable Growth
Public transportation was another focal point in the meeting. Chief Minister Fadnavis emphasized that PMRDA should carefully evaluate the workforce, maintenance capacity, and population demand before deploying additional buses for Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML). Recently, PMPML introduced electric buses, providing air-conditioned, eco-friendly travel options. With the growing demand for public transport, PMPML has requested 500 new buses, which will run on CNG to ensure environmentally sustainable commuting. The government has assured support to address any future challenges in managing the public transport sector.
Metro and Road Network Enhancements
Furthering efforts to boost connectivity in Pune, the Chief Minister directed authorities to fast-track the allocation of land within the Pune Raj Bhavan premises for the metro flyover services. Additionally, regulations for new roads in future development projects will be updated to ensure they meet the required 18-meter width, laying the foundation for sustainable growth in the city.
