Pune: PMC receives 140 cr for Katraj-Kondhwa road widening project from Maharashtra government

Delays Due to Lack of Funding

Lack of funding had caused the Katraj-Kondhwa road project, which was intended to relieve traffic congestion on the congested stretch, to come to a standstill. But now that the state government has given the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) ₹140 crore for the road widening project, things have changed.

“Despite a delay caused by electoral procedures, we successfully navigated legal formalities and financial reconciliations. On July 1, the funds were transferred to the PMC, paving the way for the road’s completion. We urge all affected landowners to promptly submit their claims for compensation to the PMC,” said Yogesh Tilekar, former BJP MLA, reported FPJ.

Reduced Width Due to Reduced Funding

For traffic to flow smoothly in South Pune, where severe congestion is a regular problem, the Katraj-Kondhwa road is essential. The approved development plan originally called for the road to be 84 meters wide, but due to land acquisition costs estimated at ₹280 crore, it will now only be 50 meters wide.

The PMC had initially demanded ₹200 crore for land acquisition, but the state government approved only ₹140 crore in the cabinet meeting. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar inspected this road, emphasising the need for widening to reduce the increasing traffic and accidents. Instructions were issued to expedite the process, despite numerous hurdles in acquiring the necessary land.

Work to Start Soon

Anirudh Pavaskar, Head, PMC, Road Department, said, “PMC has received ₹140 crore for land acquisition. We will widen 50 metres of the road and the monetary compensation will be granted to the affected landowners. The work will start soon.”