On August 1st, 2023, the city of Pune, Maharashtra, will witness an eventful day as Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi visits to inaugurate significant projects and receive a prestigious award. From metro train flag-offs to laying foundation stones for development initiatives, the Prime Minister’s visit promises to mark a momentous step towards realizing the vision of a modern and sustainable urban landscape.
Pune Metro Phase I Expansion: Enhancing Urban Connectivity
At 12:45 PM, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will ceremoniously launch metro trains, signifying the commencement of services on two completed sections of Pune Metro Phase I. These sections connect vital locations within the city, including Shivaji Nagar, Civil Court, Pune Municipal Corporation office, Pune RTO, and Pune Railway Station. The project’s foundation stone was laid by the Prime Minister in 2016, and its completion aligns with his vision of providing modern and eco-friendly mass rapid urban transport systems across the country.
Unique Design Inspired by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
The metro stations along the route boast distinctive designs inspired by the iconic Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The Chhatrapati Sambhaji Udyan and Deccan Gymkhana metro stations pay homage to the “Mavala Pagadi,” the headgear worn by soldiers of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Additionally, the Shivaji Nagar underground Metro station’s design draws inspiration from the forts built by the great Maratha warrior.
Eco-friendly Initiative: Waste to Energy Plant Inauguration
In response to environmental concerns, the Prime Minister will inaugurate the Waste to Energy Plant, situated under the administration of the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC). With an investment of approximately Rs 300 crores, the plant will utilize around 2.5 lakh MT of waste annually to generate electricity, advancing sustainable waste management practices in the region.
Fulfilling the Vision of “Housing for All”
In line with the mission of providing affordable housing to all citizens, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hand over more than 1280 houses constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) by PCMC. Furthermore, the Prime Minister will present over 2650 PMAY houses constructed by Pune Municipal Corporation and lay the foundation stone for around 1190 PMAY houses to be developed by PCMC, in addition to more than 6400 houses already built by the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority.
Honoring Excellence: Lokmanya Tilak National Award
During his visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be conferred with the Lokmanya Tilak National Award, instituted by the Tilak Smarak Mandir Trust in 1983. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding contributions to the progress and development of the nation. Notable luminaries such as Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma, Pranab Mukherjee, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, & Mrs. Indira Gandhi have been recipients of this esteemed award in the past.
