Rs517 Crore Allocated for Pune Metro Expansion and New Routes

The Union Budget has earmarked an estimated Rs517 crore for the Pune Metro project. With 33 km across two routes already operational in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad, the project is poised to enter its Phase-II expansion in the new fiscal (2026-27), even as Maha Metro fast-tracks the remaining work for Phase-I.

While Maha Metro officials are awaiting further details on the specific breakdown of the funding, they indicated that a comprehensive plan would be formulated once those specifics are received. The funds are expected to be utilised for ongoing Phase-I works on a priority basis.

Maha Metro aims to complete the 4.5 km Pimpri-Nigdi elevated line by next year, with approximately 50% of the work already completed. Additionally, tunnelling for the Swargate to Katraj underground stretch is slated to begin before the upcoming monsoon, following the appointment of a specialised agency for tunnel boring.

Regarding operations, officials said daily footfall across the two active lines has consistently exceeded 2 lakh over the past few months. While ridership is expected to surge as more stretches become operational, Maha Metro said there are currently no immediate plans to increase train frequency on the two existing routes. However, regular commuters have urged the administration to prioritise 'last-mile connectivity'.

Many believe that the current daily ridership — which has plateaued at around 2 lakh — would see a significant increase if the Metro improves access to feeder buses, autorickshaws, and parking facilities at stations. Maha Metro also plans to initiate feasibility studies for newly proposed routes during the upcoming fiscal year. Metro's phase-II expansion includes key lines such as Khadakwasla-Swargate-Kharadi, Ramwadi-Wagholi-Vithalwadi, Vanaz-Chandni Chowk, and Nal Stop-Warje. The Union government has approved these lines, and the Metro administration is preparing execution plans for these routes.