Pune is set for a significant infrastructure overhaul, with plans to reduce land acquisition for the proposed Purandar International Airport and introduce two major railway projects aimed at easing traffic congestion. The revised airport plan ensures no village settlements will be displaced, with affected farmers guaranteed fair compensation and on-site rehabilitation. This multi-faceted approach underscores a commitment to sustainable, equitable, and eco-friendly urban development, promising enhanced connectivity and a more streamlined urban experience for the Pune Metropolitan Region.
The proposed Purandar International Airport, a critical component of Pune’s long-term infrastructure vision, has seen its land requirement substantially reduced from the initial 2,673 hectares. This revision is a direct response to community concerns, specifically ensuring that no existing village settlements (gaonthans) will be displaced. The commitment to rehabilitating all affected farmers at their current locations, coupled with assurances of fair compensation, reflects a people-centric approach to large-scale development. This strategic adjustment aims to foster greater cooperation from local communities, essential for the successful and ethical implementation of such a vital project.
The new international airport, planned with a century-long perspective, is designed to feature two runways, a dedicated cargo hub, and comprehensive domestic and international flight services. Its strategic location near Saswad in Purandar taluka will address the limitations of the existing Lohegaon airport, which operates under the Defence Ministry. This major aviation hub is expected to serve not only Pune but also neighbouring districts including Ahilyanagar, Satara, Sangli, Kolhapur, and Solapur, establishing itself as a significant regional transport nexus and a catalyst for economic growth.
Complementing the airport development are two major railway projects aimed at significantly decongesting traffic in and around Pune and bolstering rail connectivity. These include the Talegaon–Chakan–Uruli and the Pune–Ahilyanagar rail lines. District officials have been instructed to facilitate the necessary land acquisition for these projects, which are slated for completion within four and five years, respectively. The Talegaon route, spanning approximately 75 kilometres, will connect key industrial and residential areas, including Talegaon, Chakan, Wagholi, Uruli, and the Solapur–Pune Road, with a branch towards the Miraj Railway line, and will feature two new stations: New Talegaon Station and Uruli Station.
This integrated infrastructure push, encompassing both air and rail transport, is crucial for Pune’s journey towards becoming a truly sustainable and equitable city. By alleviating traffic congestion, enhancing connectivity, and ensuring fair rehabilitation practices, these projects will contribute to a more efficient, eco-friendly, and gender-neutral urban environment. The focus on long-term planning and community cooperation positions Pune as a model for responsible urban development, balancing economic aspirations with social and environmental imperatives.
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