Pune has launched a new feeder bus service connecting Kalyaninagar Metro station to Magarpatta and Hadapsar, addressing critical last-mile connectivity issues. Operating every 45 minutes, the route aims to reduce dependence on private autos and improve sustainable urban transit, with plans to boost frequency based on commuter demand and enhance overall metro accessibility.
After more than a year of persistent demand from daily commuters and professionals in Magarpatta’s business hubs, the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA), in partnership with Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) and Maha Metro, finally introduced this crucial feeder bus service. The route has been designed for minimal stops and the shortest travel distance to ensure efficiency and convenience. Last-mile connectivity has remained a significant hurdle in Pune’s expanding urban fabric, where metro stations often lie far from residential and commercial zones. Prior to this service, commuters relying on the Kalyaninagar Metro station faced limited options, mostly expensive auto-rickshaw rides that strained daily budgets and commuter patience. The introduction of this bus route seeks to fill this gap, offering an affordable and reliable alternative.
Currently, feeder bus services operate on 22 routes across Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, covering key corridors such as Yerawada to Ramwadi, Vanaz to Pashan, and Shivajinagar to Kharadi IT Park. Despite this extensive network, commuter feedback consistently points to the challenge of infrequent buses, which undermines the overall appeal of public transport. Many routes have buses running at intervals as long as 40 minutes, while metro trains arrive every 7 to 10 minutes, causing inconvenience and wait times that discourage seamless multi-modal travel. Commuter Sujit Patil, who travels daily to the Airport Road area, emphasised the need for improved scheduling. “A 40-minute gap between buses is simply too long when the metro arrives every 7 to 10 minutes. For public transport to be truly effective, feeder buses should run every 10 to 15 minutes,” he said, highlighting the importance of synchronising bus and metro services for enhanced commuter experience.
Residents like Ashish Shinde from Gokhalenagar have called for expanding the feeder bus network to cover more areas and for deploying smaller buses on these routes. Shinde pointed out that smaller vehicles would not only improve coverage in less dense pockets but also reduce operating costs for PMPML while enhancing commuter comfort. Maha Metro officials reaffirmed their commitment to improving last-mile connectivity, stating that they are actively assessing demand patterns and exploring ways to increase the feeder bus fleet. “Our goal is to create an integrated, eco-friendly urban transport system that is accessible and equitable for all commuters,” a spokesperson said.
As Pune’s urban sprawl grows, such initiatives become increasingly vital in reducing private vehicle use, cutting carbon emissions, and promoting sustainable, gender-neutral mobility. The feeder bus service is a step forward in fostering a more connected and resilient city transport ecosystem. However, challenges remain in meeting commuter expectations for frequency and coverage. Continued investments, route optimisation, and responsive public feedback mechanisms will be crucial in ensuring that feeder bus services contribute meaningfully to Pune’s vision of sustainable urban mobility and inclusive city living.
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