The Swargate-Katraj extension of the Pune Metro has received a significant financial boost with the Maharashtra government approving a revised budget of ₹2,954 crore. This updated financial plan reflects the central government’s enhanced participation and adjustments to the original funding framework.
This extension, which spans 5.464 kilometres and operates fully underground, is set to expand the existing Pune Metro Purple Line. The current Purple Line runs 17.5 kilometres from Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) to Swargate, featuring 14 stations. The proposed extension will add three new stations, enhancing connectivity and convenience for commuters in Pune.
Initially, in 2022, the project was approved with an estimated cost of ₹3,668.04 crore. This cost was later reviewed by the Public Investment Board (PIB). The revised financial plan now includes a central government subsidy of ₹300.63 crore and a state government contribution of ₹97.83 crore. Both the central and state governments will provide interest-free loans to cover 50% of the Central Government Tax (CGST) and State Government Taxes and Duties (SGST), amounting to ₹115.52 crore and ₹206.58 crore, respectively. In addition to these contributions, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is set to allocate ₹181.21 crore for land acquisition, rehabilitation efforts, and interest during the construction phase. This financial restructuring aims to facilitate smoother execution and mitigate delays.
The Pune Metro project encompasses two major corridors: the north-south Purple Line and the east-west Aqua Line, with a total length of 33.1 kilometres and 30 stations. Currently, the focus is on completing Phase-1 of the Purple Line, specifically the stretch from Civil Court to Swargate. The operational segment extends from Pimpri (PCMC) to Civil Court, with the remaining 3.7 kilometres expected to be inaugurated soon. The financial and operational advancements underscore a significant step forward in enhancing Pune’s public transport infrastructure, addressing both existing and future commuter needs. The increased budget allocation and revised financial model reflect a concerted effort to expedite the project while ensuring comprehensive and effective delivery of metro services across the city.