Raising two key issues in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, BJP MLC Yogesh Tilekar has demanded the renaming of Mohammedwadi to Mahadevwadi and called for the erection of a grand memorial for Dharmaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj at Dharmaveer Gad in Ahilyanagar district.
Speaking during the Point of Information, Tilekar stated that for over 30 years, residents of Mohammedwadi have been demanding a name change. He said the area, which has no Muslim families, had unanimously approved the renaming to Mahadevwadi back in 1995. However, the process was stalled after the area was included under the Pune Municipal Corporation in 1997. Tilekar criticised the delay, saying local representatives have been consistently following up, yet the demand is not being taken seriously, causing deep dissatisfaction among villagers.
In a separate demand, Tilekar highlighted the legacy of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, calling him an icon of bravery and sacrifice. He proposed that, like the memorial at Sangameshwar, a grand monument be erected at Dharmaveer Gad to commemorate his contributions. Cultural Affairs Minister Adv. Ashish Shelar responded positively, assuring that the proposal would be considered seriously and taken up soon.
With an international airport also planned in Pune, Tilekar said that there is growing demand for the approval of the Shivajinagar to Yewalewadi–Kondhwa metro line, as well as for the immediate commencement of work on the Katraj to Hadapsar metro corridor.
He added that citizens and local leaders stress that these routes are critical for easing congestion and improving connectivity across southern and eastern Pune.
Meanwhile, the Maharashtra State Infrastructure Development Corporation (MSIDC) has floated a tender worth ₹6,500 crore for a four-lane flyover from Bhairoba Nala to Yavat. This long-pending demand on the Solapur Road corridor marks the first significant upgrade in over 40 years.
Tilekar urged that the proposed 18-kilometer flyover be extended to 20 kilometers to better address growing traffic congestion on the Solapur highway. The project is expected to bring major relief to daily commuters.
Alongside the metro and flyover demands, appeals have also been made to allocate funds for the proposed playground in honor of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, ensuring that local communities have access to quality recreational infrastructure.
