In a bid to overcome hurdles in the Katraj-Kondhwa road project, Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has allocated Rs 119 crores from its budget. The stalled land acquisition process in densely populated areas has led to a standstill in the road’s development. Despite the state government’s announcement of Rs 200 crores, PMC is yet to receive the funds, prompting the municipal body to take matters into its own hands.
The allocated budget comprises Rs 74 crores for land acquisition and Rs 45 crores for road development. The 3.5 km stretch from Katraj to Khadi Machine Chowk, earmarked for widening by 84 meters, has been facing delays due to complications in acquiring 2,88,124 square meters of land from 195 landowners.
Initiated in 2018, the road widening project aimed for completion in September 2021. However, challenges arose as numerous landowners refused to part with their properties, necessitating a reduction in the road width to 50 meters.
The revised project requires Rs. 280 crores for land acquisition, with Rs 200 crores expected from the state government. Despite assurances, the municipal corporation is yet to receive the allocated funds.
The affected stretch between Rajas Society Chowk and Gokulnagar has witnessed a surge in traffic congestion, causing inconvenience to commuters. The PMC has provisioned Rs 74 crores in the budget for land acquisition in this area, aiming to expedite the process and address the challenges posed by small plot owners.
As the complexities of land acquisition continue, expediting proposals from affected citizens could accelerate the road development process. The PMC remains committed to resolving the issues and ensuring the timely completion of the Katraj-Kondhwa road project.
