MahaConference on Railways and Metro

3/11/2018

PUNE: MCCIA has organized this Conference with the objective to increase the awareness of various initiatives of the Railways and Metros amongst the MSME’s in the Pune Region and exploring opportunities to become a part of the Railways Value chain. 

This will surely help the SME/MSMEs to contribute to the Make in Maharashtra and Make in India initiative of the Government of India. Sambhaji Patil Nilangekar, Guardian Minister for Latur was the Chief Guest for the program. He said that the Marathwada Coach Factory coming up at Latur which will open doors of opportunity for the SME sector. Maharashtra can be a major Railway Industry hub. It is indeed credible that MCCIA has brought together under one platform the Industry and the Railway ministry hub. 

Ravi Pandit, Past President MCCIA delivered the inaugural address. He said that there are many new developments like the dedicated Freight Corridor, Railways have become more efficient and professional and that there is improvement in the connectivity. He added that the  Rail Coach Factory which is coming up at Latur will open doors to business opportunities for the Industries. He further said that there are other sectors where industry can collaborate with the Railways such as expansion of Railway Platforms, Dedicated Freight Corridor and use of Renewable Energy at the Railway Establishments. On behalf of the Chamber, he suggested taking up projects like Ring Railway for PMRDA region, Pune Nasik Rail connectivity and Additional rail line between Pune and Lonavala.

Rajesh Agarwal, Member, Rolling Stock-Railway Board said in his keynote address, that Railways is the economic lifeline of the country. Development is linked with Railways becoming a centre point. He added that there has been a great amount of growth in the urban transport sector. 10 million passengers in Mumbai travelling in Suburb rails and it is growing.  He added that the MCCIA can help the Railways get the project on fast track through a collaborative effort.

Kiran Gitte, Metropolitan Commissioner, CEO, PMRDA said in his address that Pune Metro region is the 2nd largest in India with an advantage of its proximity to Mumbai. There is 40% growth in the population. Metro transportation would be covering nearly 7000 sq. km. area out of which 2000 Sq.Km. is populated urban area. He added that 153 km of Metro is the target in next 15 years. 72 km stretchis  already under construction. Many other speakers enlightened the participants during the day-long Conference.