Ms. Rinaj Pathan has been a driving force behind the development of the project since its inception, showcasing exemplary leadership and project management skills. Currently serving on deputation at PMRDA from the Public Works Department of the Government of Maharashtra, she has played a pivotal role in various aspects of the project's execution. Ms. Pathan's contributions span the development of the Concession Agreement, crafting innovative financing solutions, and designing the project for optimal land acquisition of approximately 50 hectares of brownfield area.
As a trailblazer, Ms. Pathan has demonstrated her decision-making prowess, ensuring the efficient and timely execution of the project. Notably, she has secured approvals for Viability Gap Funding amounting to Rs. 1,225 crore from the Central Government, showcasing her adeptness in navigating complex regulatory landscapes. Additionally, her role involves stakeholder coordination, traffic management, and supervision of the Concessionaire's work, contributing to the seamless implementation of the project.
Ms. Rinaj Pathan's achievements extend beyond project management, as she holds the distinction of being the first woman officer promoted to the position of Chief Engineer within the Public Works Department in the state of Maharashtra.
Her competence, quick decision-making skills, engineering acumen, and unwavering commitment to ethical practices have been instrumental in the successful delivery of this significant project. Recognized for her outstanding contributions, Ms. Pathan was honored as the "Modern Metro Women of the Year" at the prestigious 3rd Urban Infra Business Summit & Awards 2023 was held on December 7, 2023, at the India International Centre, New Delhi.
I would like to express my gratitude towards the Selection Committee for having a category to recognize women's role in urban infrastructure development. It reflects the cultural shift in the mindset of the new India and paves the way for gender equality in governance and the development sector. I'm accepting this award on behalf of all women who are actively involved in nation-building and creating state-of-the-art infrastructure.
I thank my family members, my colleagues at PMRDA, especially my boss, Hon'ble Commissioner Shri Rahul Mahiwal Sir, and all the previous Commissioners for allowing me to work on this prestigious and challenging project.
The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority is implementing the 23.203 km Pune Metro Line 3 project connecting the 1000-acre Rajiv Gandhi IT Park at Hinjawadi to the city center at Shivajinagar on a private Partnership basis under the Design Build Finance Operate Transfer model. The Metro shall re-vitalise the Hinjawadi IT Park attracting more investment and providing relief from traffic snarls and pollution to the employees and the residents alike thereby increasing the livability index of the city.
The Authority has awarded the contract to the Joint Venture of TRIL Urban Transport Pvt. Ltd. and Siemens Project Ventures GmbH. The Concession Agreement has been signed on 21.09.2019 and the Appointed Date has been declared on 25.11.2022. About 53% of the work is complete.
I would like to mention three major challenges we faced during execution –
In this project, the cement has been partially replaced by Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (as high as 50% for some designs) in civil structures, thereby reducing the carbon footprint and damage to the environment. In addition to this, Solar PV Array loads are being accounted for in the design of permanent structures to increase the share of renewables during operations. Rainwater harvesting (groundwater recharge) is being extensively adopted. Pune metro Line 3 stations are being built with a green building concept with innovative station design with a sustainable energy concept. Stations are designed taking into consideration natural light and ventilation and with the provisions of solar power and energy-efficient equipment, its energy requirement has been minimized.
Events like the Urban Infra Business Summit help bring the best of innovation & success stories at one forum wherein people from various sectors & backgrounds can come together, network, exchange their learnings & collaborate.
In totality, it was an enriching experience to be a part of the Summit. Personally, I liked the presentations & panel discussions delivered by subject matter experts & the variety of perspectives & depth of solutions that their experts brought to the table.
Recognition is one of the driving factors of growth & progress. Furthermore, it helps share the knowledge & wisdom gained so that people learn from each other. It inspires the subsequent generations to take a step further, innovate & deliver a quality product. Case Study-based brainstorming sessions would also increase the effectiveness of the Summit.
I congratulate the entire Urban Infra team for organizing this successful event. One area of improvement could be organizing networking or ice-breaking sessions so that the attendees get to know each other better. Secondly, this program could be organized in other cities where large-scale infrastructure projects are being undertaken like Pune, Surat, Hyderabad etc. so that people from various versions can extensively participate.