In Pune, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually inaugurate the 3.5 km underground metro stretch from Civil Court to Swargate via a video link on Sunday. This new metro route includes three stations—Kasba Peth, Mandai, and Swargate—aimed at reducing traffic congestion in Pune's core areas, easing pressure on roads in various locations, and enhancing connectivity between Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad. The PM will also lay the foundation for the Swargate to Katraj metro stretch and inaugurate the Solapur airport during the event. Though the original inauguration was scheduled for Thursday, heavy rain alerts led to its postponement, and a new date for the opening will be announced. Residents were left disappointed by the delay and expressed eagerness for the metro to begin operations promptly.VIPs are present, but delays in opening the metro are being criticized by commuters who feel it is unnecessary to wait for VIPs to inaugurate the service. Commuters express disappointment over the delay and call for the swift commencement of metro services. Residents are eager for the metro line to Swargate to start operating, especially during Ganeshotsav. On the other hand, MVA leaders argue that the insistence on the PM inaugurating the service is unnecessary political maneuvering. Members threaten to open the route themselves if officials do not act promptly. The City Unit President of NCP (SCP) states the non-operational metro stretch is inconveniencing Puneites and vows to open it for public use. Meanwhile, Congress MLA criticizes the delay, accusing the government of seeking political advantage at the expense of taxpayers' money. Commuters emphasize the urgent need for the metro to commence operations and express hope for a swift resolution.The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders have noted that the completion of the project route took place a month ago. However, due to the unavailability of the Prime Minister, valuable assets worth thousands of crores of rupees remain unused. Funded by the money of Puneites and taxpayers, this project aims to alleviate traffic congestion. The popularity of the metro has increased since the opening of more stations. The authorities should prioritize the completion of mass transportation projects without delay, given the significant amount of money already invested in the metro's construction. Residents like Anant Naik from Kothrud emphasize the importance of making use of the infrastructure without waiting for VIP inaugurations, particularly for projects benefiting a large number of citizens. College student Saili Ghodke adds that while there is no opposition to inaugural functions, they should not go against the interests of the public.