A Vision Renewed
The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has breathed new life into a significant infrastructure and tourism project, earmarking Rs 200.50
crore within its Rs 4,628 crore budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year. This allocation is dedicated to the development of a world-class glass skywalk in Lonavala, a project initially championed by the late deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar. The initiative aims to significantly boost tourism and enhance road infrastructure, alongside other urban development plans like twin tunnels in Pune city. The PMRDA's general body meeting, presided over by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and attended by deputy chief ministers Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar, saw this crucial financial provision made. The authority is hopeful of securing Rs 100 crore from the Union government and an equivalent amount from the District Planning Committee to support this ambitious endeavor, signaling a concerted effort to bring this grand vision to fruition and transform Lonavala into an even more captivating destination for visitors.
Skywalk's Grand Design
The proposed glass skywalk in Lonavala is set to be a truly spectacular attraction, spanning an impressive 125 meters in length and 6 meters in width. This unique structure is envisioned to connect the popular hill station with two beloved tourist hotspots, Lions Point and Tiger Point. The project's scope extends beyond the skywalk itself, incorporating a 90-meter-long, 6-meter-wide bridge as well. To complement the breathtaking views, the development includes a comprehensive array of facilities designed to enhance the visitor experience. Among these are provisions for thrilling adventure sports like zip-lining and bungee jumping, a spacious amphitheater capable of hosting 1,000 people, and 24 strategically placed gazebos offering resting spots. Furthermore, ample parking is planned, with space for 1,500 cars and 2,000 two-wheelers. The PMRDA also intends to upgrade the roads leading to both Lions Point and Tiger Point, ensuring smoother access to these already popular locales, which currently attract approximately 10,000 visitors on weekends and at least 2,000 on weekdays, highlighting the significant potential for increased tourism.
PMRDA's Broader Vision
Beyond the Lonavala skywalk, the PMRDA's expansive budget reflects a commitment to multifaceted urban development. A substantial Rs 3,895 crore has been earmarked for capital expenditure, with a significant portion, Rs 2,919 crore, dedicated to various projects and an additional Rs 971 crore allocated for land acquisition. A key component of this capital investment is the planned inner ring road project, crucial for alleviating traffic congestion within Pune city. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has specifically directed the formation of a special purpose vehicle, a joint venture between PMRDA and the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), to oversee the development of a proposed twin tunnel. This tunnel aims to create a direct and seamless transit route from Katraj to Yerawada, facilitating smooth vehicle movement from Alandi road, the Mumbai-Pune road, and Ahmednagar road, thereby decongesting the city's existing road network. The PMRDA is also diligently proceeding with land acquisition for the inner ring road and has been tasked with preparing a comprehensive development plan for 23 villages recently incorporated into the PMC's jurisdiction, indicating a holistic approach to regional growth and infrastructure enhancement.
