PM Modi Launches Pune Metro Extension, Lays Foundation for Historic Bhidewada Memorial

Pune, 29th September 2024: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for multiple key infrastructure projects across Maharashtra, totaling over ₹11,200 crore, via video conference on Saturday.

During his address, the Prime Minister reflected on the postponement of his Pune visit due to inclement weather earlier in the week, emphasizing the role of technology in facilitating today’s virtual ceremony. He lauded Maharashtra’s historical legacy of visionary leadership and expressed hope that these new developments would mark a significant chapter in the state’s growth.

Among the major projects, PM Modi inaugurated the Pune Metro’s District Court to Swargate section and laid the foundation stone for the Swargate to Katraj extension, part of Phase-1 of the Pune Metro Rail Project. He also initiated the construction of a memorial for Savitribai Phule’s first girls’ school at Bhidewada, a tribute to her contributions to women’s education in India.

“Today, we have made a big step forward for Pune’s urban development,” Modi said, referring to the metro projects. He highlighted how the expansion of public transport, like the metro, is essential for tackling the challenges posed by Pune’s rapidly growing population. “These efforts will modernize the city’s transport infrastructure and improve connectivity.”

The Prime Minister also announced the inauguration of Solapur Airport, which will improve air connectivity to the region. “This will especially benefit the devotees of Bhagwan Vitthal, offering them greater convenience,” Modi said, while also stressing that the airport’s development will bolster local business, tourism, and industry.

Addressing Maharashtra’s future, Modi stressed the need for “ambitious goals” and emphasized the importance of urban centers like Pune becoming engines of growth. He recalled that while discussions for the Pune Metro began as early as 2008, significant progress was only made after his government took swift decisions in 2016. “Today, the Pune Metro is expanding rapidly due to our quick decision-making,” he remarked, contrasting the pace of current developments with the slower progress under previous administrations.

Modi also underscored the broader importance of consistent, development-driven governance, which he credited for reviving several stalled projects in Maharashtra, from the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train to critical irrigation schemes. He praised the role of the “double-engine government” in accelerating the progress of these initiatives.

Among the other major announcements, the Prime Minister dedicated the Bidkin Industrial Area to the nation. Located in Aurangabad as part of the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor, the area covers approximately 7,855 acres. Modi said, “This project will attract huge investments and generate employment for thousands of youth in Maharashtra.” He emphasized the government’s focus on job creation through strategic investments and industrial development, especially in underdeveloped regions like Marathwada.

Modi also turned the spotlight on the contributions of women to the state’s progress, paying homage to social reformer Savitribai Phule. “The Memorial for Savitribai Phule will be a symbol of Maharashtra’s legacy of women’s empowerment,” he said, adding that the project would include a skill development center and a library. He acknowledged the struggles women faced in pre-independence India, especially in education, and praised the efforts of reformers like Phule for making education accessible to women.

The Prime Minister linked this legacy to the government’s ongoing efforts to empower women, citing initiatives like Swachh Bharat, which has had a transformative impact on women’s health and safety. “Providing basic infrastructure like sanitation has reduced school dropout rates for girls,” he noted. He also highlighted the recent passage of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, which ensures women’s leadership in the democratic process, and other policies that have expanded opportunities for women across various sectors.

Concluding his address, Modi reiterated Maharashtra’s critical role in India’s development journey, stating, “Together, we will achieve a prosperous Maharashtra and a developed India.”

 The projects inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi include the underground metro section between District Court and Swargate, which marks the completion of Phase-1 of the Pune Metro Rail Project, developed at a cost of ₹1,810 crore. Additionally, the foundation was laid for the 5.46 km Swargate-Katraj extension, estimated to cost around ₹2,955 crore.

Another key highlight was the dedication of the Bidkin Industrial Area, a 7,855-acre industrial hub near Aurangabad, developed under the National Industrial Corridor Development Program. With an investment of ₹6,400 crore, the project is expected to attract industries and create substantial employment in the region.

The Solapur Airport was also inaugurated, with upgraded facilities capable of handling over 4.1 lakh passengers annually. This improvement will enhance connectivity for both tourists and business travelers. Additionally, the foundation stone for the Memorial for Savitribai Phule’s first girls’ school was laid at Bhidewada, Pune, with plans for a skill development center and a library.

Governor of Maharashtra C.P. Radhakrishnan, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, and other dignitaries were also virtually present during the event.