Even as it awaits formal approval from the Union government, Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (Maha-Metro) has moved ahead with groundwork for Pune Metro’s Phase 2, signalling its intent to fast-track the much-anticipated expansion.
The project will link Kharadi to Khadakwasla with an elevated corridor, and tenders have now been floated for the design of 14 stations, reflecting a proactive strategy to cut delays once central approval is granted.The proposed 31.64-kilometre Phase 2 of Pune Metro comprises two corridors and is expected to add 28 elevated stations across the city. The total estimated cost stands at ₹9,897.19 crore. Although the Maharashtra government had cleared the plan in October 2024, the proposal has been awaiting the Centre’s nod since March 2025.
In anticipation of a positive decision, Maha-Metro floated tenders in two packages. The first, issued in March 2025, covered 14 stations from PL Deshpande Udyan to Khadakwasla and from Nal Stop to Daulat Nagar. The second round, issued on May 28, targets the remaining 14 elevated stations between Kharadi Chowk and Dandekar Pul. This section includes key areas such as Magarpatta, Hadapsar, Ramtekdi, Fatimanagar, Seven Loves Chowk and Swargate North.Atul Gadgil, Director (Works) at Maha-Metro, confirmed the move, stating, “We are still awaiting the Centre’s approval for the Kharadi to Khadakwasla corridor. However, to avoid any administrative delay in execution, we have started the tendering process for consultants. This allows us to begin station design work so that we can hit the ground running as soon as the final approvals arrive.”
Simultaneously, another major component of the city’s Metro network—the Swargate to Katraj underground stretch on Line 1—is also progressing. Construction is scheduled to begin in July following the re-issue of a revised tender in April. This includes five underground stations, an increase from the original three, raising the project cost by ₹683 crore. The state government has agreed to fund the additional requirement.Efforts to secure swift central clearances have also intensified. Pune MP and Minister of State Murlidhar Mohol met Union Urban Development Minister Manohar Lal Khattar recently to push for the necessary approvals. High on the agenda are the Vanaz–Chandni Chowk and Ramwadi–Wagholi routes, along with public investment board clearances for the Kharadi–Hadapsar–Swargate–Khadakwasla and Nal Stop–Warje corridors.
As Pune’s eastern and southern neighbourhoods rapidly urbanise, the Phase 2 extension is seen as critical for enabling inclusive and low-emission urban growth. The early groundwork not only signals institutional preparedness but also positions the city to benefit from seamless connectivity once the final nod is granted. With climate concerns and commuter congestion rising, Pune’s proactive Metro expansion approach could emerge as a model for other fast-growing Indian cities.
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