Camp, 8th February 2024: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis laid the foundation for a prosperous future in Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and PMRDA regions during the inauguration of various development projects in the Pune Cantonment Assembly Constituency. Fadnavis, foreseeing the Pune Ring Road as a pivotal driver, anticipates an economic infusion of Rs 2.5 lakh crore into the region.
The Deputy CM inaugurated key projects, including a new residential building for class IV employees of Sassoon Hospital, modernization of Mahatma Gandhi Pulgate Bus Stand, development of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar statue area, renovation of Sangameshwar Ganesh Visarjan Ghat, and Shelter Home for Citizens at Sangam Ghat. Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony of Dharmaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Botanical Garden, Fadnavis highlighted the road’s crucial role in shaping the future development of Pune.
The Pune Ring Road project, with 80 percent of land acquisition completed, is poised to connect with the metro system, featuring a Skybus link to facilitate transportation to institutions in the IT park area. Fadnavis also revealed plans for a 9 km missing link between Khopoli and Khandala to reduce travel distance between Mumbai and Pune, addressing persistent traffic congestion issues.
Fadnavis underscored Pune’s commitment to comprehensive development, citing ongoing schemes such as 24×7 water supply and riverfront development. He lauded Pune’s environmental efforts, including the introduction of the country’s first fleet of electric buses by PMPML. The rapid progress of metro construction further reflects the city’s dedication to a sustainable and efficient public transportation network.
Despite challenges in the Pune Cantonment Assembly Constituency due to Defence Department regulations, Fadnavis assured a pursuit of funds through the Cantonment Board, similar to the process in Municipal Corporations. A forthcoming meeting with the Pune Municipal Corporation, Urban Development Department, and related departments will address pending development works in the Cantonment Board.
Minister Chandrakant Patil and MLA Bhimrao Tapkir, among others, highlighted the state’s development momentum, acknowledging completed projects and ongoing initiatives. The prospect of merging the cantonment with the municipal corporation offers hope for citizens in the area, according to MLA Kamble.
