Pune reviews HCMTR, tunnel projects; Rs 1,500 crore earmarked for land acquisition

Maharashtra minister of state for urban development Madhuri Misal reviewed key mobility projects in Pune on Friday, August 21, and directed officials to resolve land acquisition, funding and approval-related issues to prevent delays.

The projects reviewed included the proposed High Capacity Mass Transit Route (HCMTR) elevated corridor, tunnels between Taljai and Hingne and Pashan and Panchavati, the elevated stretch between Vitthalwadi Kaman and Ektanagari, and the inner ring road.

Misal said, “The focus should be on resolving land acquisition, funding and approval-related issues in advance so that these projects do not face delays. All concerned departments must work in coordination and ensure that the projects move forward within a defined timeline”.

The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) plans to use Rs 1,500 crore from its fixed deposits towards the estimated Rs 3,000 crore land acquisition cost for the HCMTR. Misal directed officials to ensure that the move does not affect other civic works or essential services.

The review also covered a repayment plan, efforts to secure viability-gap funding from the Centre and other funding options.

The PMC is targeting the HCMTR tender in December 2026. Officials have been asked to complete land acquisition, technical approvals and pre-tender processes on time. A digital dashboard and war room will also be set up to monitor the projects.

Misal also directed officials to integrate HCMTR planning with Metro and bus services and prepare an alternative traffic plan to minimise disruption on Sinhagad Road, Satara Road and Pashan Road during construction.

For the inner ring road, the PMC, Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) and Uruli Devachi-Phursungi municipal council have been asked to finalise the scope of work, land acquisition and financial responsibilities.