Pune: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to virtually inaugurate the 3.5 km underground metro stretch from Civil Court to Swargate on Sunday, connecting the Kasba Peth, Mandai, and Swargate metro stations. This new route is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion in Pune's core areas, alleviate pressure on roads in various parts, and enhance connectivity between Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad. Maha Metro officials, along with Pune's MP and Union minister Murlidhar Mohol, confirmed the PM's virtual inauguration on Sunday. Additionally, the PM will lay the foundation for the underground metro stretch from Swargate to Katraj and inaugurate the Solapur airport.

Unfortunately, heavy rain caused the PM's planned visit on Thursday to be canceled, delaying the metro's opening. The project is expected to resume once a new date is set for the inauguration. Despite the delay, efforts are being made to expedite the opening for commuters, either through a virtual ceremony by the PM or rescheduling his visit. The metro officials are awaiting instructions from the state and central governments for the official opening on Sunday. Disappointed commuters who were hoping to use the metro to Swargate on Thursday expressed their eagerness for immediate operationalization of the metro, stressing that the project was funded by taxpayers and should be made accessible promptly.The VIPs are present. Ashish Deshpande, a regular metro commuter, expressed frustration over the delay in opening the metro for commuters. He emphasized that there was no need to prioritize VIPs for the opening, as they can visit later. Many commuters waiting to use the metro are disappointed and urge authorities to start the services promptly. Shivajinagar resident Virdas Khude mentioned that the metro line to Swargate was expected to be operational during Ganeshotsav. Uncertainty looms over when the stretch will finally be opened for commuters. Leaders of the MVA, including Congress and NCP (SCP), criticized the BJP for insisting on the Prime Minister inaugurating the services, deeming it unnecessary. They threatened to open the Civil Court to Swargate route themselves on Friday if metro officials do not take action. Prashant Jagtap, the NCP (SCP) city unit president, highlighted that the delay in opening the metro stretch solely due to the Prime Minister's canceled visit is not beneficial for the people of Pune. He announced plans to inaugurate the stretch for public convenience with MVA supporters. Congress MLA Ravindra Dhangekar criticized the BJP's motives behind wanting the PM to visit Pune, indicating a political agenda for the upcoming assembly election. The demand is for the immediate opening of the Metro stretch for the citizens without further delay. Commuters stress the importance of a graphic facility. The Civil Court to Swargate is a 3.5km underground stretch with three unopened stations at Kasba Peth, Mandai, and Swargate. Maha Metro has prepared one entry-exit point at all three stations for commuters, with rakes scheduled to run from 8.30pm on Thursday. Due to heavy rain, an alternative venue for the inauguration at Ganesh Kala Krida Manch was considered but later dismissed following the PM's canceled visit.Leaders of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) stated that despite the completion of work on the route a month ago, assets worth thousands of crores of rupees are currently unused due to the unavailability of the Prime Minister. The project, funded by the citizens of Pune and taxpayers, aimed to alleviate traffic congestion. They emphasized the importance of prioritizing the completion of mass transport projects without unnecessary delays. The metro system has grown in popularity following the opening of additional stations. It was noted that a significant amount of money has already been invested in constructing the metro infrastructure, which should now be put to use. A resident of Kothrud, Anant Naik, expressed the view that inaugurations for infrastructure projects such as the metro, which benefit a large population, should not be contingent on VIP attendance. While there is no opposition to holding inauguration ceremonies, they should not be detrimental to the interests of the citizens, as suggested by college student Saili Ghodke.