Pune Metro Work To Be Started On ‘Lakdi Pul’ As There Is No Other Option: Mayor Mohol

Sachin Gawali

Pune, 7th December 2021: Metro technical experts have reported that the alternatives suggested by Ganeshotsav Mandals and Pune Metro are not feasible for the Metro work on Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Bridge (Lakdi Pul) which connects Alka Chowk to Deccan area. If the work is not started, then it will impact the development of the city. Therefore, the Metro work will be resumed, informed Mayor Murlidhar Mohol.

Some activists of Ganeshotsav Mandals had objected that the metro line on Lakdi Pul would be an obstacle in the Ganesh immersion (visarjan) procession. After stopping the Metro work, Mayor Mohol had held three meetings of Ganeshotsav Mandal members, Metro officials and experts.

Besides, Mayor Mohol had also called for alternatives from the activists. After studying these options, Metro concluded that both the options suggested were not feasible. Against this backdrop, Mayor Mohol has asked to start work.

Regarding this, Mayor Mohol said, “It is the responsibility of all of us to preserve the culture while carrying out development works. I am first an activist of Ganeshotsav Mandal and then a people’s representative. The Ganeshotsav Mandals of Pune have accepted the changes that have preserved the consciousness of the society till date. Changing with the times, keeping the tradition alive, Ganeshotsav of Pune made an impression on the world map. Activists will also witness the progress of Pune by supporting the work of Metro.”

The option given by Ganeshotsav Mandals was to block the Metro route. However, no metro in the country has adopted such an option. According to the first option suggested by Pune Metro, 39 pillars around the bridge would have to be demolished and rebuilt. It would have cost Rs 70 crore and an additional period of 24 months. The second option was to demolish 17 pillars and build new ones. It would take 18 months and cost an additional Rs 23 crore. Therefore, considering the practicality and the current state of work, both the options are not suitable, the technical experts of Metro have given their report.

“Considering all these factors, it seems more appropriate to start work in the current situation,” said Mayor Mohol.

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