Pune: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, announced a significant environmental and infrastructure initiative during a ceremony in Pune on Saturday (September 21).

As part of the Shri Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi route development, approximately 800 ancient trees, some over a century old, have been successfully replanted.

In a larger effort to transform the landscape, about 42,000 trees will soon be planted along both the Shri Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj and Shri Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi routes.

"These trees will turn the Palkhi route into a green highway, offering a scenic and eco-friendly journey for pilgrims and travelers alike," Gadkari said.

This announcement was made during a function where the foundation stones for several infrastructure projects, including the widening of the Dive Ghat-Hadapsar road on the Palkhi route, and the construction of service roads and bridges between Warje and Sinhagad, were laid.

The event, held at Cummins College in Karvenagar, saw the attendance of notable figures such as Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Union Minister Murli Mohol, Cooperation Minister Dilip Walse-Patil, and MP Supriya Sule.

In addition to the environmental efforts, Gadkari discussed the development of a "Master Plan" to resolve Pune's growing traffic congestion. The plan involves the development of all four main routes connecting Pune and the construction of a Ring Road, which will link these roads.

Gadkari also emphasized the need for Pune to transition to ethanol-powered vehicles as a measure to reduce pollution and urged the state government to take steps toward setting up ethanol fuel stations in the city.

Gadkari also noted that the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has failed to repair potholes on the old Pune-Mumbai Highway. Gadkari warned that if these repairs are not completed within three months, the road will be handed over to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).