Maharashtra govt approves modifications to HCMTR retaining controversial Balbharati-Paud Phata stretch

The modifications to the HCMTR were proposed by Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) in 2021 and had been sent to the state government. There are reportedly 26 modifications to road alignments and the state government has instructed the PMC to obtain environment clearance for the project before its actual implementation. BJP leader Ujjwal Keskar has welcomed the state government’s approval.

The HCMTR was first proposed in a 1987 development plan of the PMC as it was considered necessary to decongest the city’s existing roads. “The project of mass transit route was pending for 40 years. The route passes through almost all assembly segments in the city. It passes from above water bodies so there aren’t any major hurdles for its implementation and the land area through which it passes has already been acquired by the civic body,” Keskar said, adding it will help ease public transport services, so PMC should immediately begin for its construction.

Keskar said the Balbharati to Paud Phata stretch is part of HCMTR, so it has to be implemented as early as possible to resolve traffic issues.

Congress leader Ulhas Bagul said the state government should retain the earlier alignment of the HCMTR. He alleging that the 26 modifications to the HCMTR was done in the interest of real estate developers. “The Congress will oppose the modifications and would will the court if need be to challenge the changes made,” he said.

Bagul said that suggestions and objections will be filed against the proposed modification to the HCMTR’s alignment of route. “The state government decision comes soon after the Lok Sabha elections. The newly elected Lok Sabha MP should make his stand clear on it,” he said.

Last year, civil society organisations had protested against the proposed Balbharati to Paud Phata road link.