Pune, 19th January 2024: As the Lok Sabha elections loom on the horizon, Pune’s metro network is poised for significant expansion. The eagerly awaited 5.5 km stretch from Ruby Hall Clinic to Ramwadi Metro is on the verge of final inspection and approval by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) next week. Simultaneously, the Centre’s approval for the Swargate-Katraj underground section is anticipated within the next month.
Metro Expansion Updates:
Sources within Pune’s political circles suggest that the Ramwadi stretch could be operational for commuters before the general elections. A senior Maha Metro official confirmed the preliminary inspections by the CMRS team on the Ruby Hall-Ramwadi stretch last week. Following a satisfactory outcome, the team is scheduled for the final inspection next week.
Once operational, the Ruby Hall-Ramwadi section will provide direct connectivity for residents in the Nagar Road area to Deccan Gymkhana and Kothrud, according to Maha Metro officials. The possibility of Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating the Ramwadi stretch and launching the Katraj stretch is gaining traction, adding to the political buzz.
Anticipation for PM Modi’s Visit:
Leaders from BJP’s city unit express optimism that the Prime Minister will visit the city before the LS polls’ announcement. While an official confirmation is pending, a leader mentioned, “The PM is likely to visit the city in February to launch the Metro section and other projects.”
Contrastingly, Congress leaders criticize the BJP for not prioritizing the Metro and other projects during their majority in the PMC for the past five years. A Congress leader expressed dissatisfaction, stating, “BJP is attempting to gain voters’ attention by inaugurating a Metro stretch ahead of polls. But people are unhappy as the project has not been completed even after eight years.”
Pune Airport Terminal Ready for Inauguration:
In addition to metro developments, the new terminal building of the Pune airport is ready for inauguration, contributing to the city’s infrastructure advancements.
