As Pune’s first metro corridor nears full operational status, the city’s public transit infrastructure is preparing to scale new frontiers.
Authorities have initiated the design process for 14 out of the proposed 22 elevated stations on the 25.8 km Kharadi to Khadakwasla metro corridor, while simultaneously launching the groundwork for new extensions, including a much-Pune Metro begins design for Kharadi corridor and plans airport linkanticipated link to Pune International Airport and a spur to Kondhwa. This forward momentum marks a significant milestone in Pune Metro’s Phase Two development, which aims to expand the city’s rail-based public transport with sustainable, multi-modal connectivity. The Maharashtra government granted state-level clearance for the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for Phase Two in October last year, proposing two major alignments—Khadakwasla to Kharadi via Swargate and Hadapsar, and Nal Stop to Warje via Manik Baug. However, final approval from the Union government is still awaited, and all on-ground work remains contingent upon that clearance.
Despite this, officials have taken a proactive approach to avoid delays post-approval by initiating preliminary design activities. “Detailed design consultancy services for 14 elevated stations have been initiated to ensure faster execution once the green light from the Centre is received,” an official from Pune Metro confirmed. Phase Two’s primary corridor from Khadakwasla to Kharadi includes 22 stations and is estimated to cost ₹8,131 crore. The 6-km Warje extension adds another ₹1,765 crore to the budget. In keeping with global transit-oriented development practices, the proposed stations are being conceptualised for six-coach trains and are designed to incorporate both economic viability and aesthetic sensibilities. General arrangement drawings, interface diagrams, and comprehensive station layouts are currently being prepared. Each station will be compliant with the Indian Green Building Council’s (IGBC) Green Mass Rapid Transit System norms, with a target of achieving the highest sustainability ratings. Emphasis is being placed on integrating solar energy solutions, smart lighting, and water conservation systems to align with Pune’s broader climate resilience goals. Authorities are also exploring the integration of property development with station structures to boost non-fare revenue. Provisions are being considered for the addition of one extra floor—either above or below the platform level—at key interchange and terminal stations.
These innovations are part of a larger vision to create metro stations that are not just transit nodes but also community-centric urban spaces. One of the major design considerations involves intermodal connectivity. For instance, the proposed Swargate North Station will be linked with the existing Swargate Station on the PCMC-Swargate route through either a pedestrian foot overbridge or an underpass, depending on final feasibility studies. At the eastern end of the corridor, Kharadi Chowk station will be connected to the Kharadi Junction station of the Ramwadi-Wagholi route. Similarly, Hadapsar station plans include two pedestrian overbridges—one to link with the nearby railway station and another to facilitate safe crossing over the state highway. Pune Metro authorities are concurrently preparing a fresh DPR for a dedicated corridor from Kharadi to Pune Airport, which will significantly enhance east–west connectivity across the city. The airport link is expected to be a game-changer, especially as Pune experiences rapid growth in air passenger traffic and expanding residential developments in the Lohegaon area. Another proposed spur line will serve the southern localities of Kondhwa, Undri, and Yewalewadi, providing much-needed mass transit access to these densely populated and under-served neighbourhoods.
While the DPRs are under formulation, city officials maintain that their focus remains on building an efficient, climate-positive transport system. The aim is not just to move people but to reimagine public transport as a sustainable and equitable service that enables inclusive growth and reduces reliance on carbon-intensive personal vehicles. The progress on Phase One of Pune Metro, which includes the Vanaz to Ramwadi and PCMC to Swargate corridors, has provided a strong foundation for further expansions. While these routes are already operational, work is underway to extend services from Swargate to Katraj and from PCMC to Nigdi. The proposed extensions from Vanaz to Chandni Chowk and Ramwadi to Wagholi are still awaiting central approvals. Officials also confirmed that the final civil works at Khadki Metro Station are nearing completion, and the foot overbridge across the Mutha River is expected to be operational soon, further strengthening intra-city connectivity.
As Pune Metro moves forward with this new phase of development, the emphasis remains firmly on designing for the future—where efficient public transport forms the backbone of a green, accessible, and liveable city. If executed with the same momentum and forward planning, the second phase of Pune Metro could redefine how the city grows, travels, and thrives in the decades to come.
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