Pune Metro is set to significantly enhance its commuter services with the induction of 15 new trainsets, adding 45 coaches to its existing fleet. The move comes in response to growing ridership and the central government’s approval of Phase 2 extensions, which are expected to increase the city’s metro footprint and improve urban connectivity.
The current fleet of Pune Metro comprises 34 trains with 102 coaches. With the addition of the new trainsets, the total fleet size will increase to 49 trains with 147 coaches. Each trainset will have three coaches, in line with the existing configuration. The procurement process is being initiated to ensure timely delivery and operational readiness in anticipation of increased demand on the extended routes. The new trainsets are being acquired primarily to support the expansion of the Aqua Line corridor under Phase 2. The approved routes include the western extension from Vanaz to Chandani Chowk (Corridor 2A), covering 1.12 km with two stations, and the eastern extension from Ramwadi to Wagholi/Vitthalwadi (Corridor 2B), spanning 11.36 km with 11 stations. In total, Phase 2 will add 12.75 km and 13 new stations to the network.
According to officials from the Pune Metro authority, the city’s growing urbanisation and demand for dependable public transport have necessitated a proactive approach to enhance the system’s capacity and frequency. The increase in trainsets will allow the metro operator to reduce headway between trains from the current seven minutes to five minutes initially, and eventually to just three minutes. This is seen as crucial to ensuring convenience during peak hours and managing increased passenger flow. Data from the metro authority between May and June 27, 2025, shows a distinct trend in ridership favouring Line 2 (Vanaz to Ramwadi), which recorded 2,596,984 passengers, compared to Line 1 (PCMC to Swargate), which saw 2,114,611 passengers. In May alone, Line 2 recorded a ridership of 2,615,914, surpassing the 2,146,951 passengers on Line 1. This differential highlights the need for targeted capacity enhancement, particularly along Line 2.
Metro officials have also indicated long-term plans to consider increasing the number of coaches per train from three to six to accommodate future growth. They noted that the new trainsets, once operational, will provide the flexibility to expand capacity further as the city’s public transport ecosystem evolves. Urban planners and transport experts have praised the move, highlighting its role in reducing road congestion, lowering vehicular emissions, and promoting sustainable commuting habits in one of Maharashtra’s fastest-growing cities. The expansion is also expected to significantly reduce dependence on private vehicles and contribute to the state’s broader goals of promoting low-carbon urban transport.
The procurement process for the new trains is expected to prioritise energy efficiency, passenger comfort, and safety features in line with international standards. The metro authority is also reviewing the feasibility of introducing modern automation systems and digital signalling to further optimise operations and energy use. The Phase 2 extension is part of a long-term vision to make Pune a public transport-friendly city. With growing awareness of environmental sustainability and increasing urban population pressures, expanding the metro network has become not just a mobility solution, but a critical aspect of the city’s infrastructure planning.
Officials stated that efforts will also be made to ensure last-mile connectivity for the extended lines through feeder bus services, improved pedestrian infrastructure, and integration with other modes of transport. They added that stakeholder consultations will continue to play a key role in fine-tuning the implementation of this project. As Pune continues to expand, the focus remains on creating a well-integrated, safe, and accessible metro system that supports inclusive urban development. The introduction of 15 new trainsets marks a strategic step in scaling operations, enhancing commuter experience, and positioning Pune Metro as a backbone of sustainable urban mobility in the region.
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