Original text of Prime Minister's address at the laying of foundation stone ceremony of Pune metro projects

Tuesday, 3 November 2026 – Prime Minister Highlights Revolutionary Changes in Pune’s Public Transport Network at Historic Ground‑Breaking Ceremony

At a historic ground‑breaking ceremony held in Pune on Tuesday, 3 November 2026, the Prime Minister shed light on the revolutionary changes being introduced to the public transport network of Maharashtra’s major industrial city. On this occasion, the Prime Minister not only reviewed the progress of the construction of various phases of Pune Metro but also presented a new model for other cities in the country. In his address, he emphasized that expanding metro systems in modern cities is not merely about providing traffic convenience; it has become a fundamental requirement for urban planning, environmental protection, and economic development.

During the ground‑breaking of the Pune Metro projects, the Prime Minister clarified that this project is a crucial part of the government’s “Swatantra Bharat” vision. He noted that Pune, a major hub of technology and education, needs a metro network that is not only convenient for commuters but also effectively connects the city’s various industrial clusters. He explained that the design of the new metro lines is such that they directly link the city’s main markets, educational institutions, and industrial areas, thereby significantly improving annual traffic mobility and reducing pollution levels.

During the ceremony, the Prime Minister also acknowledged that some challenges emerged in the early stages of metro construction, including land acquisition and water management. However, he expressed confidence that these obstacles were overcome in a timely manner through ad‑hoc administrative efforts and the cooperation of technical experts. He appreciated the cooperation of the Pune administration and local residents, who endured the inconveniences that arose during construction.

In his speech, the Prime Minister also stated that this project will directly create thousands of jobs, especially for local workers. He said that skill‑development programmes required for metro operation and maintenance will be robustly implemented so that local youth can find new employment opportunities. He also mentioned that areas surrounding metro stations will be developed as mixed‑use developments, providing an environmentally friendly environment and a balanced mix of commercial activities.

At the end of the ceremony, the Prime Minister appealed to Pune residents to respect and use this new metro system effectively. He also assured that the central government will prioritize Pune’s other infrastructure needs, such as water supply and environmental protection. This ground‑breaking ceremony marked the beginning of a new chapter for Pune’s future development, offering a path to solve the city’s traffic crisis and taking a significant step toward establishing it as a smart and sustainable city.