Flip-flop on Pune Metro continues

This is in reference to the article which appeared in Pune Newsline dated February 26.

This is in reference to the article which appeared in Pune Newsline dated February 26. The argument put forward by the Urban Development Department that an underground Metro system is not viable for Pune is not acceptable to many citizens.

There have been numerous debates on whether Pune should go for an underground or elevated Metro. The proposed Metro project connecting Pune Pimpri-Chinchwad envisages a network of approximately 75 km and the cost may go up to Rs 30,000 crore.

The quality of life in a city is defined by the availability of its public transportation system. As far as Pune is concerned,the existing inadequacy in the public transport facility is adding to the sufferings of its inhabitants.

Moreover there is no scope to expand the density of surface transport system in the city. Therefore,many citizens feel that the Pune needs an underground Metro,even if the commissioning cost is high. Pune roads being narrow,it would be almost impossible to construct elevated structures.

Construction of Metro stations at several points would be a challenge in the space management. An elevated project will also displace many people,who will have to be rehabilitated.

The PMC should under take comprehensive feasibility studies including dynamic probes to arrive at a proper decision in resolving the transportation hurdles .

(Major Mathew Oommen)

Remembering a soldier

Lt-General Ranjit Singh Dyal passed away in Chandigarh on January 29 this year,leaving behind his wife and daughter. Born in Kurukshetra on November 15,1928,Dyal was selected to join the Indian Military Academy in 1946 and commissioned to 1st Battalion,the Punjab Regiment (Para),later designated 1 PARA (Special Forces). As a young officer,he took part in the 1948 war in J&K.

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In August 1965,Pakistan,invaded Kashmir. On the night of August 25- 26,Major Dyal led the assault against Pakistan and captured Ledwali Gali on August 27. Marching at night through difficult terrain,he captured the Haji Pir Pass.

For his outstanding leadership and courage,Major Dyal was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra . He subsequently led an illustrious career in the Army and retired as the GOC-in-C Southern Command at Pune in 1986.

Later,he was the Lieutenant Governor of Pondicherry,Andaman and Nicobar and also served as Member UPSC. Officers who served with him remember him as a daring,morally upright officer,who was an excellent role model.

A magnetic personality,his style was to be where the action was. A soldier to the core and perfect gentleman in deed and spirit,he was large hearted,humane and approachable and was held in high esteem by his officers.

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He was also a keen sportsman,excelling in hockey,golf and parachuting.

(Col SM Ismail,SM)

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