The acquisition process had been delayed last year due to the state assembly elections, but it has now resumed, with joint measurements and valuation underway. The PMRDA has set aside Rs 1.13 billion for the land acquisition, with approximately 30 per cent already deposited for compensation in the first phase. Officials are optimistic that the land acquisition for this stretch will be completed within the specified timeframe.

The total cost for the entire 83.12 km inner ring road project is estimated at Rs 142 billion. The district collector's office has completed the joint survey for the first phase and will now proceed with the valuation process. The landowners from the affected villages have agreed to provide the required land for the project.

The inner ring road is designed to enhance traffic flow by providing direct connections to highways, thereby bypassing the city’s congested roads. To expedite the project, the state government relaxed certain planning regulations last year.

The first phase will require 28 hectares of land from the villages of Solu, Wadgaon Shinde, and Nirgudi. A total of 743.41 hectares will be needed for the full 83.12 km ring road, which will pass through 44 villages in Khed, Haveli, Mulshi, and Maval talukas. The project will also include 42 connecting roads, 17 bridges, and 10 tunnels, with a 5-meter section allocated for Metro tracks.

News source: Pune Mirror