Maharashtra minister of state for urban development Madhuri Misal on Friday reviewed the progress of key mobility projects in Pune, including the proposed high-capacity mass transit route (HCMTR), tunnel projects, and the inner ring road. She also directed Maharashtra Natural Gas Ltd (MNGL) to expedite pending works and improve gas supply infrastructure across the city.
All concerned departments must work in coordination and ensure that the projects move forward within a defined timeline”. Misal directed officials to ensure that the move does not affect other civic works or essential services. The meeting also reviewed a repayment plan, efforts to secure viability-gap funding from the Centre, and other funding options.
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) plans to use ₹ 1,500 crore from its fixed deposits (FDs) towards the estimated ₹ 3,000 crore land acquisition cost for the HCMTR, according to officials. Misal said, “The focus should be on resolving land acquisition, funding and approval-related issues in advance so that these projects do not face delays.
The HCMTR will require land and clearances from the Khadki Cantonment, defence, railways, forest and other government agencies. Misal directed officials to take up such issues at the state government level wherever necessary. She also called for separate planning for private land acquisition and rehabilitation of affected slum settlements. The proposed tunnels in the Taljai and Panchavati areas were also discussed. Officials were asked to complete detailed project reports, structural designs and environmental impact studies. Misal stressed that biodiversity, groundwater and safety concerns must be addressed before obtaining the required clearances. “MNGL should prepare a clear plan for its work in Pune and implement it in coordination with local public representatives, the civic administration and citizens.
For the inner ring road, the PMC, Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) and Uruli Devachi-Phursungi municipal council have been asked to finalise the scope of work, land acquisition and financial responsibilities, officials said. Once the work is completed, gas supply should be started without delay and arrangements should be made to ensure that consumers receive their bills on time,” Misal said. MNGL Pune manager Ritesh Ingolle said that the company will address issues raised during the meeting and coordinate with the PMC and local representatives to resolve the citizens’ complaints.
