BJP Contender for Pune Mayor Advocates Metro Route Realignment to Alleviate Traffic Woes
In a significant move aimed at addressing long-standing traffic issues, BJP corporator Manjusha Nagpure, a strong contender for the mayor's post in Pune, has called for a realignment of the proposed Metro route on Sinhagad Road. Nagpure, who has been re-elected to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) for a third consecutive term, has formally requested the civic administration to explore alternative pathways for the Metro line from Khadakwasla to Kharadi.
Proposed Alternatives to Ease Congestion
Nagpure suggests that instead of following the current plan for an elevated route along the heavily congested Sinhagad Road, the Metro could be rerouted along a nearby canal or the Mutha river. She argues that this adjustment would not only mitigate traffic disruptions but also expedite the project's implementation. "Sinhagad Road is the most congested road in Pune city, serving as a vital artery for commuters. Constructing a Metro line above the existing flyover would further inconvenience residents," she stated, highlighting the need for a more efficient solution.
Current Metro Project Details and Challenges
The Pune Metro has already received central approval for an elevated route spanning 31.636 km from Khadakwasla to Kharadi, passing through Swargate and Hadapsar. This route, part of Lines 4 and 4A, is designed to connect key IT hubs, commercial zones, educational institutions, and residential areas across the city. With an estimated cost of Rs 9,857.85 crore, the project is slated for completion within five years. However, Nagpure emphasizes that the planned alignment through the middle of Sinhagad Road could exacerbate existing traffic chaos, especially given the recent construction of a flyover that caused significant public inconvenience for over two years.
Administrative Response and Future Steps
Nagpure has submitted a written communication to both Pune Metro Rail and the PMC, urging them to assess the feasibility of her proposed realignment. While discussions have been initiated, no official response has been received yet. She has also raised the issue with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who has assured her that it will be taken up for further discussion. Dinkar Gojare, in charge of the PMC project department, confirmed that her letter will be forwarded to the state government for consideration.
Key Points from Nagpure's Proposal:
- Realign the Metro route along a canal or the Mutha river, which run parallel to Sinhagad Road.
- Avoid land acquisition and construction delays on the busy Sinhagad Road.
- Ensure faster project implementation without disrupting traffic flow.
- Provide much-needed Metro rail facilities to ease daily traffic jams in the Sinhagad Road ward area.
Nagpure, representing the Suncity-Manikbaug electoral ward, stresses that proper planning and swift execution are crucial to bringing relief to citizens. She has called for detailed information on Metro Line 4 to facilitate thorough study and public discussion, underscoring her commitment to sustainable urban development in Pune.
