Prime Minister Narendra Modi, via video conferencing on Sunday, laid the foundation stones, inaugurated, and dedicated various projects in poll-bound Maharashtra, with a total worth of around Rs 11,200 crore.
Among the key developments, the Prime Minister inaugurated the Pune Metro section from District Court to Swargate, marking the completion of Phase-1 of the Pune Metro Rail Project. The cost of the underground section was approximately Rs 1,810 crore.
Additionally, he laid the foundation stone for the Swargate-Katraj extension of Pune Metro Phase-1, which will be developed at a cost of around Rs 2,955 crore. This southern extension spans about 5.46 km and will be entirely underground, featuring three stations: Market Yard, Padmavati, and Katraj.
The Prime Minister also dedicated the Bidkin Industrial Area, a transformative project under the National Industrial Corridor Development Program, covering 7,855 acres. Situated 20 km south of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, the project, part of the Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor, aims to become a significant economic hub in the Marathwada region. The overall project cost is estimated at over Rs 6,400 crore, to be developed in three phases.
In his address, PM Modi emphasized, “India should be modern and move forward, but rooted in its fundamental values and heritage.”
The Prime Minister further inaugurated Solapur Airport, which will enhance connectivity and accessibility for tourists, business travelers, and investors. The revamped terminal is now equipped to handle 4.1 lakh passengers annually. Highlighting the significance for pilgrims, PM Modi remarked, “The upgraded airport will provide direct air connectivity to Solapur, making it easier for devotees to visit Lord Vitthal.”
Additionally, he laid the foundation stone for the Memorial of Krantijyoti Savitribai Phule’s First Girls’ School at Bhidewada.
Without naming any specific individuals, Modi criticized previous governments, stating that they lacked proper planning and vision for urban areas.
