Pune Land Acquisition for PMRDA Ring Road Project Gains Momentum
The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has significantly accelerated land acquisition for its proposed 83-kilometre, 65-meter-wide Ring Road project, a vital infrastructure initiative designed to alleviate the escalating traffic congestion in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. This new arterial road, complementing the existing outer ring road planned by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), aims to create a high-capacity bypass around the metropolitan core. The swift progress in land surveys underscores a concerted effort to enhance urban mobility, reduce carbon emissions from traffic, and contribute to the development of a more sustainable and economically vibrant city.
Joint land surveys have been successfully completed in 10 of the 12 villages earmarked under Phase 1 of the project, demonstrating considerable momentum. However, surveys in Jambhulwadi and Kadam Vasti are currently pending due to opposition from local residents. PMRDA officials are set to initiate dialogue with these villagers next week, aiming to resolve the outstanding issues and finalise the remaining measurements. This engagement with local communities is crucial for ensuring equitable and transparent land acquisition processes, aligning with principles of fair urban development and community inclusion.
Upon completion of the surveys, the land acquisition process will proceed via direct purchase in the villages where measurements are finalised. A public notice regarding these acquisitions is anticipated shortly. Subsequently, the district land price determination committee will assess and decide compensation based on prevailing market rates, ensuring fair remuneration for affected landowners. This systematic approach aims to minimise disruption and facilitate a smooth transition, which is essential for large-scale infrastructure projects that directly impact livelihoods and communities.
Phase 1 of the ambitious Ring Road project is strategically divided into two primary sections: from the Solu Interchange to Nirgudi, and from Nirgudi to Vadgaon Shinde. The Solu–Nirgudi stretch alone necessitates the acquisition of approximately 115 hectares of land across 12 villages, including Solu, Vadgaon Shinde, Nirgudi, Ambegaon Khurd, Bhilarewadi, Mangdewadi, Gujar Nimbalkarwadi, Pisoli, Yewlewadi, and Vadachi Wadi. These acquisitions are fundamental to laying the groundwork for a transformative piece of urban infrastructure.
Once operational, the Ring Road is expected to significantly ease traffic pressure within Pune’s urban core by providing a strategic bypass. This enhanced connectivity will improve access between rapidly developing growth corridors within the metropolitan region, fostering more efficient movement of goods and people. By redirecting transit traffic away from city centres, the project promises to reduce journey times, lower vehicular emissions, and contribute to a healthier urban environment, thereby supporting the city’s aspirations for zero net carbon development and a higher quality of life for its residents. The project represents a critical investment in Pune’s future as a well-connected, sustainable, and economically dynamic urban centre.
