Chief Minister Eknath Shinde Calls for Urgent Solutions to Pune’s Traffic Woes and Advocates for Purandar Airport Development

Pune, 29th September 2024: During a significant event marking the inauguration of the passenger service on the District Court to Swargate metro station route, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde emphasized the state government’s role in tackling the increasing traffic congestion in Pune. The virtual ceremony, which was also attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, included the groundbreaking for the southern extension of the metro line from Swargate to Katraj route, as well as the inauguration of several key projects, including the Solapur airport and the Krantijyoti Savitribai Phule’s first girls’ school memorial in Bhidewada.

In his address, Shinde noted, “As Pune expands with its growing IT sector, industries, and educational institutes, our transport system is under immense strain. It is the responsibility of the state government to solve these traffic challenges. Projects like the metro are crucial, and we must prioritize expanding our metro network.”

The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, along with Union Minister of State for Aviation Muralidhar Mohol and various other state and local leaders. Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan joined the event virtually.

In highlighting Maharashtra’s industrial leadership, Shinde remarked, “We are implementing various projects with the support of the central government to boost overall development. With 52 percent of the country’s foreign investment, Maharashtra is attracting entrepreneurs from diverse sectors, making it an industry-friendly state.”

The Chief Minister also stressed the importance of expediting the land acquisition process for Purandar Airport, stating, “We must acquire land swiftly and compensate farmers accordingly. A joint meeting of the Union Ministry of Aviation and the Ministry of Industry will be held to address any challenges, and we are committed to starting work on the Purandar Airport soon.”

Shinde introduced several public welfare initiatives aimed at improving the lives of citizens, including the Chief Minister Ladki Bahin Yojana, Chief Minister Vyoshree Yojana, and Chief Minister Thirtha Darshan Yojana. “These programs have benefited nearly 1.9 crore women, and we are dedicated to continuing our dynamic development agenda,” he assured.

Deputy Chief Minister Fadnavis highlighted the significant progress made on the Pune Metro project, stating, “Since its inception in 2014, the work has accelerated, and the first phase of Pune Metro has been recognized as the fastest in the country. The Swargate metro station will serve as a ‘multimodal station,’ the first of its kind in India.”

Fadnavis further emphasized Pune’s economic importance, calling it “an economic magnet” and stating that projects worth around ₹1 lakh crore are currently underway in the region. “Pune is a hub for industry and technology, and we aim to provide employment opportunities to thousands of citizens through these developments,” he added.

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar noted the completion of the Swargate metro station as a major achievement for Pune residents. He acknowledged the current traffic challenges while emphasizing the long-term benefits of the metro project, which will transform public transportation in the city.

The event also focused on the memorial for Krantijyoti Savitribai Phule in Bhidewada. Pawar confirmed that the state government has approached the High Court and Supreme Court for the site’s possession, and the estimated cost for land acquisition is approximately ₹200 crore, with the Pune Municipal Corporation allocating ₹10 crore for the memorial’s construction.

Minister Muralidhar Mohol highlighted that with the support of the central government, Pune has seen numerous developments, including the metro, Ayurvedic college, and new airport terminal. He praised initiatives aimed at empowering women, which are helping them become self-sufficient.

Minister Chhagan Bhujbal expressed his satisfaction that the Bhoomi Puja for the Bhidewada memorial was conducted by Prime Minister Modi, underscoring the importance of this historical project.

As the ceremony concluded, the commitment to addressing Pune’s traffic challenges and advancing development initiatives resonated among the attendees, setting a hopeful tone for the city’s future.