Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated several key infrastructure projects on Sunday, September 29, including the Pune Metro segment from Shivajinagar District Court to Swargate, and the newly revamped Solapur Airport. These projects, along with others, are part of a broader development push in Maharashtra, with a combined investment of Rs 11,200 crore.
Pune Metro Inauguration: District Court to Swargate Segment
PM Modi marked the completion of Pune Metro’s Phase-1 by unveiling the metro link between Shivajinagar District Court and Swargate, a crucial underground stretch costing approximately Rs 1,810 crore. The new section, set to open for public use at 4 pm, will greatly improve connectivity for residents of Pimpri-Chinchwad, easing their commute to central areas like Swargate and Katraj. Although some have noted that this is the sixth time the Prime Minister has inaugurated segments of the same metro project, the significance of the milestone remains clear for Pune’s residents.
Foundation Laid for Swargate-Katraj Metro Extension
During the same event, PM Modi also laid the foundation stone for the Swargate to Katraj extension of Pune Metro’s Phase-1. The 5.46 km underground extension, with a project cost of around Rs 2,955 crore, will feature three new stations: Market Yard, Padmavati, and Katraj. This southern extension aims to further streamline the city’s public transport system and reduce congestion in key areas.
Solapur Airport Inauguration
The Prime Minister also inaugurated the upgraded Solapur Airport, a project designed to boost connectivity for the city, especially in terms of tourism and business travel. The revamped terminal will be able to handle around 410,000 passengers annually, positioning Solapur as a more accessible hub for both investors and tourists.
Projects Worth Rs 11,200 Crore
In addition to the metro and airport projects, PM Modi also laid the foundation for various other initiatives across Maharashtra, with a total value exceeding Rs 11,200 crore. Among them is a major development project under the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor, designed to stimulate economic growth in the Marathwada region. This project, which will be completed in three phases, carries an estimated total cost of Rs 6,400 crore and is expected to turn the region into a bustling economic center.
These projects represent a significant leap forward in Maharashtra’s infrastructure development, aimed at enhancing both urban mobility and regional economic growth.