Maharashtra’s rapidly expanding urban landscape is poised for a significant upgrade in public transit, as the state government has officially sanctioned Phase II of the Pune Metro project.
This ambitious expansion, encompassing two vital corridors totalling 31.64 kilometres and incorporating 28 new stations, now awaits final clearance from the Union Cabinet. Despite having received state-level approval in October 2024 and Public Investment Board (PIB) endorsement in March 2025, the critical central government nod remains pending. Once secured, this development promises to fundamentally reshape urban mobility, dramatically improving connectivity across Pune’s burgeoning suburbs and peripheral regions, paving the way for a more sustainable and accessible urban future.
The comprehensive Phase II blueprint includes two crucial corridors designed to alleviate traffic congestion and extend the metro’s reach. The Kharadi to Khadakwasla corridor, spanning 25.8 kilometres with 22 planned stations, represents a substantial investment of approximately ₹8,131 crore. Complementing this is the Nal Stop to Manik Baug corridor, a six-kilometre stretch featuring six stations, projected at an estimated cost of ₹1,765 crore. Together, these two corridors represent a combined investment of approximately ₹9,897.19 crore, underscoring the scale of this pivotal infrastructure undertaking aimed at transforming Pune into a more interconnected metropolitan hub.
In a proactive move, the Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (Maha-Metro) has already initiated the tendering process for detailed design consultancy services, anticipating the impending central clearance. This foresight reflects a commitment to expedite project execution once all approvals are in place. The project has been segmented into two design packages, with the first tender, floated in March 2025, covering 14 stations from PL Deshpande Udyan to Khadakwasla and Nal Stop to Daulat Nagar. The second tender, released in May 2025, includes vital sections from Kharadi Chowk to Dandekar Pul, encompassing key localities such as Magarpatta, Hadapsar, Fatimanagar, and Seven Loves Chowk.
Further amplifying Pune’s connectivity, Maha-Metro is simultaneously preparing a new Detailed Project Report (DPR) for an extension of the metro line from Kharadi to Pune Airport in Lohegaon. Concurrently, a spur line has been proposed to connect rapidly developing residential pockets in Kondhwa, Yewalewadi, and Undri. These strategic extensions are designed to integrate the metro network with air travel and burgeoning housing zones, ensuring enhanced last-mile access and fostering a more seamless transit experience for a wider demographic.
A significant commitment to sustainability is embedded in the project’s design philosophy. Each new station is planned to accommodate six-coach trains and will strictly adhere to the rigorous IGBC Green MRTS (Mass Rapid Transit System) standards. Architectural plans incorporate features such as solar energy integration, aesthetically pleasing layouts, and dedicated spaces for property development above or below platforms. This vertical expansion strategy aims to generate crucial non-fare revenue, enhancing the project’s long-term financial sustainability and reducing its reliance on public funding. Such green building practices and sustainable revenue models are vital for building zero net carbon, eco-friendly urban infrastructure.
The expansion will create critical connectivity points across the city, including a link from Swargate North Station to the existing PCMC–Swargate line via an underpass or a foot overbridge. Kharadi Chowk will seamlessly connect to the Ramwadi–Wagholi corridor, while Hadapsar Railway Metro Station will feature two foot overbridges—one spanning 350 metres for rail connectivity and another 450 metres to cross State Highway 27. These linkages are pivotal for ensuring equitable access to public transport for all citizens, enhancing convenience, and promoting gender-neutral mobility within Pune.
Currently, Phase I of the Pune Metro, comprising the Purple Line (PCMC to Civil Court) and the Aqua Line (Vanaz to Ruby Hall Clinic), is partially operational. The remaining stretches are expected to be commissioned in phases by late 2025. With the Phase II extension, Pune Metro is poised to connect more peripheral regions to the city centre, offering a seamless, eco-friendly, and reliable mode of transport. This is anticipated to significantly reduce the burden on Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) buses and private vehicles, thereby easing notorious traffic congestion on key arterial roads, and contributing to cleaner air quality. Areas such as Wagholi, Chandni Chowk, Kharadi, Ramwadi, and Vitthalwadi are expected to be major beneficiaries, with improved metro access also anticipated to boost real estate development. Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Pune MP, Murlidhar Mohol, has been actively pursuing central approvals, signaling the government’s strong commitment to accelerating this vital urban development.
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