Konkan & Pune secure ₹24,157-cr infra infusion

The Maharashtra state government has allocated ₹24,157 crore for projects like the marine highway in Raigad, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts of Konkan, and outlays for expansion of the Pune Metro network, and has also proposed an economic corridor in Satara district. The development of Konkan is a matter of priority for the government as it intends to finish work on the highway in the next three years. The state government announced that the existing highway (NH-4) would be concretized and bridges will be constructed on the creek sections at Bankot, Kelshi, Dabhol and Jaigad. The Revas to Redi marine highway is still under-construction and the state government intends to complete the work in the next three years. Funds will be made available to complete the work through the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation, in a phased manner. NHAI is already four-laning the Mumbai-Goa Highway. An investment of ₹15,000 crore is expected for the project covering land acquisition cost. The state government would also allot more funds for the Pune Metro as the Pune Pimpri-Chinchwad Metro has already secured an allocation of ₹1,657 crore for 2020-21. The Man-Hinjewadi to Shivajinagar route under Pune Metro rail line where two new lines – Shivajinagar to Shevalevadi and Man to Pirangut – will also be started. The Metro line from Vanaj to Ramwadi will be extended from Vanaj to Chandani Chowk and Ramwadi to Wagholi. Also, the length of the line from Pimpri-Chinchwad to Swargate will be extended from Swargate to Katraj and from Pimpri-Chinchwad to Nigdi, said an official spokesperson.