Pune, November 3, 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has highlighted the expansion of Pune’s metro network as part of India’s broader urban infrastructure development, noting that improved rail connectivity is expected to support mobility, economic activity and urban growth.
Speaking at a foundation stone-laying ceremony for Pune Metro projects, the Prime Minister referred to the inauguration of the metro corridor connecting Hinjewadi and Shivajinagar. He said the connection would improve access to Pune’s major IT hub, while another metro project, for which work has commenced, is expected to strengthen links between older and newer parts of the city.
The event was attended by Maharashtra Governor Jishnu Dev Verma, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Union Minister Manohar Lal and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, along with other public representatives.
Metro network expansion across India
During his address, Modi outlined the growth of metro infrastructure across the country. According to figures cited by him, India’s operational metro network has increased from 248 kilometres in 2014 to approximately 1,200 kilometres. Metro services, which were previously available in five cities, now operate in 26 cities, with more than one crore passengers using the system daily.
He also stated that India now has one of the world’s three largest metro networks.
Discussing Maharashtra’s infrastructure development, the Prime Minister said the state had around 10–11 kilometres of operational metro lines in 2014. The network has since grown to approximately 175 kilometres, while construction activity is continuing across more than 680 kilometres of additional routes.
He further noted that investments exceeding Rs 2.5 lakh crore are being directed towards metro infrastructure in Maharashtra.
Public-private partnership model
The Pune project also drew attention for its use of the public-private partnership (PPP) framework. Modi described cooperation between government agencies and private enterprises as an important approach to infrastructure development.
He said better urban transport systems could reduce commuting time, improve productivity and support economic opportunities for residents.
Urban development and investment plans
The Prime Minister also referred to the Urban Challenge Fund, approved in February 2026, under which the Centre has earmarked Rs 1 lakh crore in assistance. The initiative aims to encourage substantial additional investment in urban infrastructure and develop smaller cities as economic growth centres.
He called for greater participation from local authorities and private businesses in implementing urban development projects.
PM highlights poverty reduction and economic growth
Moving beyond infrastructure, Modi discussed India’s economic performance and poverty reduction efforts. Referring to a recent World Bank report, he said approximately 50 crore people had moved out of extreme poverty over the preceding 10–12 years.
He linked this progress to increased public investment, welfare delivery and improvements in essential services, including housing, sanitation, drinking water and household cooking gas.
The Prime Minister also spoke about the relationship between poverty reduction, the expansion of the middle class and rising consumer demand.
Assurance to farmers facing difficulties in Maharashtra
Addressing the challenges faced by agricultural communities in Maharashtra, Modi acknowledged the difficulties caused by adverse weather conditions. He said the Union government would support affected farming families and referred to assistance provided by the state government and the PM-KISAN scheme.
He also urged citizens to consider the difficulties of farmers during the festive season and extend support to rural communities affected by natural calamities.
The Prime Minister concluded by calling for collective participation in India’s development, with particular emphasis on improving urban infrastructure and public services.
Source: According to an official statement issued by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Delhi, on November 3, 2026, detailing the Prime Minister’s address at the foundation stone-laying ceremony for Pune Metro projects.
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