The Union Cabinet on 25 June 2025 approved a ₹3 626 crore extension of Pune Metro Line 2, a major push towards strengthening sustainable urban connectivity in Maharashtra’s growing city. The approved corridors will stretch 12.75 km, adding 13 new stations and linking Vanaz to Chandani Chowk and Ramwadi to Wagholi–Vitthalwadi, effectively expanding the current Vanaz–Ramwadi alignment.
The project cost will be equally shared by the Government of India, the Maharashtra state government, and external bilateral or multilateral funding agencies. As Pune ranks as the ninth most populous city in India, this move underscores the administration’s intent to modernise mobility infrastructure in line with its Comprehensive Mobility Plan and environmental goals. The new elevated sections will serve rapidly expanding suburbs such as Chandani Chowk, Bavdhan, Kothrud, Kharadi, and Wagholi—areas home to technology parks, business hubs, academic campuses, and residential zones. This expansion aims to resolve longstanding connectivity gaps and support the city’s east–west transit corridor.
Crucially, the extension will integrate seamlessly with existing networks at the District Court interchange station, linking with Line 1 (Nigdi–Katraj) and the planned Line 3 (Hinjewadi–District Court). It will also enable long-distance bus interchanges—Mumbai and Bengaluru services at Chandani Chowk, and buses from Ahilya Nagar and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar at Wagholi—offering residents improved multimodal transport options. Citywide, the extension is expected to reduce traffic congestion along major arteries such as Paud Road and Nagar Road by shifting commuter volume from private vehicles to metro transit. Forecasts project daily ridership for Line 2 to rise to 96,000 by 2027, climbing to 201,000 in 2037, 287,000 in 2047, and reaching 349,000 by 2057.
Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (Maha‑Metro) will manage all aspects of implementation, including civil construction, electro‑mechanical systems, and technical integration. Preparatory activities, such as detailed design and topographical surveys, have already commenced, with the goal of completing the project within four years. Officials emphasise the need for a steady execution pace and quality oversight. Analysts and urban planners have welcomed the extension, noting its strategic alignment with Pune’s growth trajectory. They highlight the importance of effective implementation of last‑mile connectivity measures—such as feeder buses, walkable pathways, and cycling lanes—to fully leverage public benefits and promote gender‑neutral mobility access.
This large-scale infrastructure project serves a dual purpose: enhancing connectivity while reinforcing sustainability objectives. The extension is expected to reduce urban emissions by lowering dependence on private transport and supports the city’s transition towards zero‑carbon development. Economically, the ₹3 626 crore investment is seen as a catalyst for local growth. It is likely to reduce commuter times, improve access to employment clusters and educational institutions, and encourage equitable development. By tapping into central and state funding alongside international financial support, the project sets a precedent for fiscally sustainable, cutting‑edge public transport initiatives.
Looking ahead, completing the extension on time and integrating it effectively into the broader transport ecosystem will be key. If delivered as planned, the Pune Metro Line 2 expansion could serve as a benchmark for future sustainable urban mobility projects nationwide—embodying progressive planning and execution. The Cabinet’s approval signals a significant shift towards eco‑friendly urban transit systems, ensuring that Pune’s growth is matched by robust, inclusive, and future‑ready mobility infrastructure.
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