The Prime Minister flagged off the inaugural train on the newly completed underground Pune Metro section between Swargate and the District Court. This section, costing approximately ₹1,810 crore, is a critical part of Pune’s growing public transportation infrastructure, aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving urban mobility.
Foundation Stone Laid for Swargate-Katraj Metro Extension
PM Modi also laid the foundation stone for the 5.46 km Swargate-Katraj Metro Extension as part of Phase 1, with an estimated project cost of ₹2,955 crore. This extension will feature three underground stations—Market Yard, Padmavati, and Katraj—further expanding the city’s metro network.
PM Modi Criticizes Previous Government’s Inaction on Metro Development
During his address, PM Modi criticized the previous state government for delays in urban development, specifically in building metro infrastructure. He remarked, “Pune should have had an advanced transport system like the metro much earlier, but there was a lack of planning and vision. While the previous government failed to build even a single pillar in 8 years, we have completed a modern metro station.”
Dedication of Bidkin Industrial Area
The Prime Minister also dedicated the Bidkin Industrial Area, covering 7,855 acres, to the nation. This project, under the National Industrial Corridor Development Program, is located 20 kilometers south of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and aims to revitalize the region’s industrial sector.
Solapur Airport Revamp
In addition to the Pune Metro, PM Modi inaugurated the newly revamped Solapur Airport. The airport’s terminal building has been expanded to accommodate 4.1 lakh passengers annually. This upgrade will significantly benefit devotees traveling to Solapur for the darshan of Lord Vitthal.
Foundation Stone for Savitribai Phule Memorial at Bhidewada
PM Modi also laid the foundation stone for the memorial of Krantijyoti Savitribai Phule’s First Girls’ School at Bhidewada, celebrating a landmark institution in India’s educational history.
This slew of developments marks a major push for Maharashtra’s infrastructure growth and urban modernization, furthering the government’s focus on improving regional connectivity and industrial potential.
