On September 24, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde approved a PMRDA budget of INR 3,838.61 crore, nearly double last year's allocation. During the meeting, he stressed the importance of expert planning for affordable housing in the Pune Metropolitan Region and the need for plenty of open spaces. Shinde called for a lottery for the remaining 1,620 houses under the PMAY scheme and urged the acceleration of 6,000 additional units. Discussions included the regularization of fees under the Gunthewari Act, forming a disaster response team, and constructing new fire stations. PMRDA Commissioner Mhase confirmed INR 982 crore for the comprehensive mobility plan to address traffic congestion.
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde approved a PMRDA budget of INR 3,838.61 crore for the year on September 24, nearly doubling last year's budget of INR 1,926 crore. At the annual PMRDA budget meeting in Mumbai, the CM stressed the need for expert planning of affordable housing schemes in the Pune Metropolitan Region (PMR) and emphasized the inclusion of adequate open spaces.
Shinde noted that as Pune city becomes increasingly densely populated, it is essential to prioritize the availability of sufficient free spaces in newly developing areas. The meeting, originally scheduled for March, took place after nearly six months of delay, having been postponed due to the Lok Sabha elections and the model code of conduct that remained in effect until June this year.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister highlighted the significance of sustainable urban planning, stating that, given Pune's existing congestion, it is crucial to provide sufficient free spaces in the developing areas of the PMR. He instructed the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) to consult experts in the planning of residential units and stressed the need to maintain high construction standards for affordable housing. Additionally, Shinde urged that strict actions be taken against those who violate guidelines.
Of the total 4,886 houses completed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) scheme, Shinde urged for a lottery to be conducted for the remaining 1,620 houses. He highlighted the need to accelerate the construction of an additional 6,000 houses in the second phase and mentioned that various amenities, including parks and open spaces, should be included for all of them.
The meeting also covered the regularization of fees under the Gunthewari Act and the relief to be offered to citizens, with special concessions planned until March 31, 2025. Additionally, there were discussions about forming a disaster response team for the PMR, modelled after Thane city's team, and constructing new fire stations at ten locations. Approval was given for developing drainage schemes in eleven areas and for glass skywalks at Tiger's Point and Lion's Point in Lonavala. Attending the meeting alongside the CM and PMRDA Commissioner Yogesh Mhase and his team were State Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik, Additional Chief Secretary of the Finance Department OP Gupta, and Additional Chief Secretary of the Planning Department Rajagopal Deora.
After the budget meeting, PMRDA Commissioner Mhase told TOI that INR 982 crore has been allocated for the comprehensive mobility plan. He mentioned that the Chief Minister highlighted the necessity of this plan due to the rising traffic congestion in Pune and the objective of establishing direct links between city roads and highways. Among the 29 missing links, four have already been completed, and the construction of bridges at Hingangaon, Yavat, and Rahu is proposed under the CMP. A private agency has been commissioned to prepare the plan.
In conclusion, the PMRDA budget meeting marked a significant step towards addressing Pune's urban challenges, with Chief Minister Eknath Shinde prioritizing sustainable development and improved housing. The emphasis on expert planning and sufficient open spaces reflects a commitment to enhance living conditions amidst rapid urbanization. Initiatives like the disaster response team and mobility plan indicate proactive measures to tackle future needs. By fostering collaboration with private agencies and setting clear guidelines for construction, the government aims to create a balanced urban environment that accommodates growth while ensuring community well-being and infrastructure resilience.
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