Pune: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's planned visit to Pune today (September 26) has been abruptly canceled due to heavy rains in the city and district areas, sparking sharp criticism from opposition leaders.

Congress leader and MLA from Kasba Assembly Constituency Ravindra Dhangekar took aim at the financial implications of the visit, criticizing the government for what he described as wasteful expenditure. 

"Prime Minister Modi was scheduled to visit Pune for the phased inauguration of the city's Metro, but this would have put a heavy financial burden on both the state and national exchequer. Modi seems unaware of this impact," Dhangekar remarked.

He further criticized the need for such a visit, stating that the associated costs—running into crores of rupees—could have been avoided. "Modi has previously conducted inaugurations from his office. 

Had he done the same this time, lakhs of rupees could have been saved. Instead, it appears this inauguration plan was crafted with the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections in mind, giving the impression that something substantial is being done for Pune," Dhangekar added.

The Congress leader suggested that Pune Metro’s new underground route, from Civil Court to Swargate, should be opened without unnecessary political fanfare. 

"We request Prime Minister Modi and the administration to allow the inauguration to proceed with local senior citizens or notable personalities from Pune. Public money should not be spent wastefully," he said.

Dhangekar also criticized the political atmosphere surrounding the Metro inaugurations, calling it "unfortunate" and urging the government to prioritize public funds. 

"These phased inaugurations are unnecessary. A state leader or the guardian minister could have easily performed the duties without the excessive spending on advertisements and events. As a citizen of Pune, I believe this expenditure should have been avoided," Dhangekar concluded.