Pimpri-Chinchwad commuters face mounting challenges as Pune Metro stations continue to operate without parking facilities, prompting authorities to recommend the use of feeder services and public transport. With vehicles being parked indiscriminately along roadsides and footpaths, traffic congestion and pedestrian safety concerns have escalated, particularly in areas between the PCMC Main Administrative Building and Dapodi. Officials emphasise that constructing parking lots is unfeasible, making sustainable transport alternatives essential for daily commuters.
Pune Metro currently operates two active lines: the Purple Line connecting PCMC Building to Swargate, and the Aqua Line linking Vanaz (Kothrud) to Ramwadi. Together, these routes cover key north-south and east-west corridors, with 30 stations now operational across Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. Line 3, extending from Hinjawadi IT Park to Shivajinagar, is under construction and expected to become operational by 2026, alongside other expansion projects that aim to integrate with city buses and other transit modes. Planned extensions include Swargate to Katraj, PCMC to Nigdi, Vanaz to Chandni Chowk, Ramwadi to Wagholi, and a greenfield line from Khadakwasla to Kharadi via Hadapsar, featuring driverless operations. Despite rising ridership, the absence of parking at major stations has created logistical challenges for commuters. PCMC Building Metro Station, the city’s highest revenue-generating station, lacks dedicated parking, forcing vehicles onto footpaths and surrounding roads. Residents report that autorickshaws and private cabs exacerbate congestion, especially during peak hours. Daily commuters travelling from outer suburbs, including Wakad and Kalyani Nagar, struggle to access the metro, with limited options to park bicycles or cars near stations, particularly during rainy weather.
Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (Maha Metro) advises commuters to rely on feeder buses, rickshaws, or other public transport to reach metro stations. Officials note that establishing paid parking facilities is not viable, as such arrangements would likely attract complaints about fees being higher than metro fares. Maha Metro Managing Directors emphasise that vehicles parked early in the morning remain throughout the day, occupying spaces that could serve other passengers, further justifying the focus on sustainable transit options. Urban mobility experts highlight that promoting public transport access, rather than private vehicle use, aligns with broader city sustainability goals. By encouraging feeder services and integrated transit solutions, Pune Metro aims to reduce carbon emissions, improve pedestrian safety, and manage traffic congestion efficiently. Authorities are also exploring digital solutions and operational strategies to enhance commuter experience while maintaining equitable access to the city’s expanding metro network.
As Pune’s metro network grows, balancing accessibility with urban planning constraints remains critical. While parking scarcity presents short-term challenges, a focus on integrated, eco-friendly transport solutions offers long-term benefits for the city’s sustainability and commuter convenience.
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