PM Modi Lays Foundation Stones and Dedicates Projects Worth Over ₹11,200 Crore in Maharashtra

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated and laid the foundation for several key projects across Maharashtra, worth over ₹11,200 crore, via video conferencing. The event, which marked a significant milestone in the state’s development, underscored Maharashtra’s growing importance in infrastructure, urban development, and women’s empowerment.

Addressing the gathering virtually, the Prime Minister expressed regret over the cancellation of his Pune visit two days earlier due to bad weather but credited technology for facilitating today’s virtual event. He emphasized Maharashtra’s role in shaping a new chapter of development, highlighting the state’s rich cultural heritage and its potential to lead India’s progress.

Among the projects inaugurated was the long-awaited Pune Metro section from District Court to Swargate. The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for the Swargate-Katraj Extension of Pune Metro Phase-1, reflecting the government’s commitment to improving urban transportation in Pune, a city facing increasing population pressure. Modi mentioned the swift progress in Pune’s metro expansion since the project’s foundation was laid in 2016, contrasting it with the delays seen under previous administrations.

Prime Minister Modi also inaugurated the revamped Solapur Airport, a crucial project aimed at improving air connectivity for both tourists and business travelers. The upgraded facility will now accommodate up to 4.1 lakh passengers annually, enhancing travel for devotees of Bhagwan Vitthal and boosting the local economy.

Another major initiative highlighted by the Prime Minister was the Bidkin Industrial Area, a cornerstone project of the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor. Spread over 7,855 acres, this project is expected to draw thousands of crores in investment and create significant employment opportunities in the Marathwada region. Modi described it as a symbol of Maharashtra’s evolving industrial landscape, which will benefit from improved connectivity and infrastructure.

A key aspect of the event was the foundation laying of the Memorial for Krantijyoti Savitribai Phule’s First Girls’ School at Bhidewada. Modi praised Savitribai Phule’s pioneering efforts in women’s education, calling her a torchbearer of social reform. The memorial will include a skill development center, library, and other facilities, serving as a lasting tribute to her legacy and a source of inspiration for future generations. He highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance women’s empowerment through initiatives like the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, ensuring women’s leadership across various sectors.

Concluding his address, Prime Minister Modi stressed the importance of Maharashtra’s continued development, highlighting how the “double-engine government” has fast-tracked stalled projects and emphasized modernization while preserving the state’s rich heritage. He reiterated his vision for a “Viskit Maharashtra, Viksit Bharat” (Developed Maharashtra, Developed India) and emphasized the crucial role the state will play in India’s development journey.

The event was attended virtually by Governor C. P. Radhakrishnan, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, along with other dignitaries.

Key projects inaugurated or launched by the Prime Minister include:

• Pune Metro Rail Project (Phase-1): The underground section between District Court and Swargate, costing around ₹1,810 crore, was inaugurated. The foundation for the 5.46 km Swargate-Katraj extension was also laid, at a cost of ₹2,955 crore.
• Bidkin Industrial Area: Covering 7,855 acres, this project under the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor is expected to transform the Marathwada region with an overall project cost of over ₹6,400 crore.
• Solapur Airport: The revamped terminal building, with a capacity to serve 4.1 lakh passengers annually, was inaugurated, further boosting tourism and commerce in the region.
• Savitribai Phule Memorial: The foundation stone for a memorial at the site of India’s first girls’ school was laid, paying tribute to her role in women’s education and empowerment.