Pune is among the fastest-growing cities in India, and the state government is firmly committed to addressing the growing traffic congestion in the region, said Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. He stated that the government plans to build a comprehensive metro network of nearly 200 kilometres across Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority area in the coming years. Fadnavis made these remarks while speaking at the inauguration ceremony of ‘Metro Bhavan’ in Pune. The event was attended by several dignitaries including guardian minister Sunetra Pawar, minister of state for urban development Madhuri Misal, mayor Manjusha Nagpure, MP Medha Kulkarni, MLAs Yogesh Tilekar, Bhimrao Tapkir, Sunil Kamble, Hemant Rasane and Bapu Pathare.
Fadnavis further noted that the work on the Pune Metro project is progressing at a rapid pace and several corridors are nearing completion. He announced that the Shivajinagar to Hinjewadi metro corridor will soon be opened for commuters, significantly improving travel convenience for residents of the city. Once this stretch becomes operational, nearly 55 kilometres of metro lines will be functioning within Pune. In addition, construction of another 55 kilometres of metro corridors across various parts of Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad is underway on a war footing. The government has also planned an additional 80 kilometres of routes for the future, aiming to create a total metro network of 200 kilometres. He directed metro authorities to prepare an integrated development blueprint instead of planning projects in isolated phases.
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar said that the newly inaugurated Metro Bhavan represents more than just an administrative headquarters; it symbolizes the modern progress and transformation of Pune. She highlighted that the building showcases advanced engineering and meticulous planning, making it an impressive addition to the city’s administrative infrastructure. Pawar also pointed out that Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad have emerged as key economic and developmental hubs of Maharashtra. With the steady increase in population, pressure on the transport system had intensified in recent years. In response, the Mahayuti government launched several major infrastructure initiatives to ease traffic congestion and improve urban mobility across the region.
Addressing questions about long queues for LPG cylinders reported in Pune and other parts of Maharashtra amid the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran, Fadnavis clarified that there is no shortage of gas anywhere in the country or the state. He alleged that Rahul Gandhi and leaders of the Indian National Congress are deliberately spreading misleading information and creating confusion among citizens. Fadnavis urged people not to believe rumours or panic unnecessarily. He appealed to residents to avoid gathering in large numbers outside gas agencies or standing in long queues, assuring them that the supply of LPG cylinders remains stable and adequate throughout Maharashtra.