Big Boon for City: MSIDC to Develop 230 km Highway between Sambhaji Nagar and Pune
City MSIDC: In a significant development for Nagpurians residing in Pune, the Maharashtra State Infrastructure Development Corporation (MSIDC) has been tasked with the monumental project of constructing a 230 km greenfield 6-lane highway from Sambhaji Nagar to Pune. This transformative initiative, intersecting with the Samruddhi Highway, promises to revolutionize travel for the people of Vidarbha, especially Nagpur, drastically reducing the commute time between these two cities. The potential six-hour journey to Pune signifies a paradigm shift, liberating residents from the reliance on trains, airplanes, and overcrowded sleeper buses throughout the year.
An Historic Agreement
On a Friday that will be etched in the memory of the region, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formally signed between the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) and the Public Works Department (PWD). The venue for this historic event was the esteemed Hotel Radisson Blu, graced by the presence of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The responsibility of executing this colossal project lies with MSIDC, (City MSIDC) acting on behalf of PWD.
Financial Viability and Traffic Dynamics
During the ceremony, Minister Gadkari asserted the financial viability of the 230 km project, foreseeing an average monthly toll collection of approximately Rs 100 crore. The route, being one of the busiest industrial corridors in the state along the Pune-Sambhaji Nagar axis, witnesses an immense volume of traffic. Gadkari also urged MSIDC to enhance the existing State highway from Sambhaji Nagar to Pune, presenting an additional revenue stream for the corporation. Importantly, the identified greenfield project route traverses the less developed areas of Ahmed Nagar and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, promising a positive impact on the local economy.
Environmental Vision
Deputy Chief Minister Fadnavis emphasized the landmark nature of the project, aligning it with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of zero carbon emissions. The envisioned highway is not only a necessity but will also be adorned with greenery, reflecting a commitment to sustainable development. Dr. Brijesh Dixit, the Managing Director of MSIDC,(City MSIDC) echoed these sentiments in his welcome address, underscoring the project’s pivotal importance.
Formalizing the Commitment
The MoU, a binding agreement for this transformative endeavor, was signed by Dinesh Nandanwar, Chief Engineer of PWD, and Mayur Govekar, Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. Anshumali Shrivastav, Regional Officer of NHAI, Mumbai Region, added the official touch to the proceedings.
The MSIDC’s ambitious project to construct a 230 km highway connecting Sambhaji Nagar and Pune is a game-changer for the region. Not only does it promise to significantly reduce travel time, but it also aligns with environmental sustainability goals. The impact on local economies, particularly in less developed areas, cannot be understated. As the wheels of progress begin to turn, this highway project symbolizes a step towards a more connected and eco-friendly future.
FAQs
- How long will the journey from Sambhaji Nagar to Pune take after the completion of the highway?
- The estimated travel time is around six hours, a substantial reduction from current norms.
- What are the expected monthly toll collections for the 230 km highway project?
- Minister Gadkari anticipates an average of Rs 100 crore per month from toll collection.
- How will the greenfield project impact the less developed areas of Ahmed Nagar and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar?
- The project’s route is designed to pass through these areas, potentially boosting local economies.
- What is the environmental vision behind the new highway project?
- Deputy Chief Minister Fadnavis envisions a zero carbon emission highway adorned with greenery.
- How can MSIDC raise its initial capital for the project?
- With the substantial earnings expected from toll collections, MSIDC aims to fund the project independently.
