Pune Metros Swargate Katraj Line Groundwork Yet To Begin Nearly A Year After Approval
Pune’s much-anticipated 5.5-kilometer Swargate-Katraj Metro line, an extension crucial for connecting the city’s southern end to Pimpri Chinchwad, remains a non-starter nearly a year after its approval in August 2024. The delay is primarily attributed to a necessary re-tendering process, which became unavoidable after two additional stations were incorporated into the original plan. Initially sanctioned with three stations, the inclusion of Balajinagar and Market Yard stations expanded the route to five, leading to a revised project cost.
Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (Maha Metro) officials have stated they are in the final stages of completing the re-tendering work and expect to appoint agencies for project execution within the next two months. However, actual groundwork is not anticipated to commence until after the monsoon season, likely in October 2025. This delay comes despite the foundation stone for the Swargate-Katraj stretch being laid by the Prime Minister in September 2024. Commuters, particularly those residing along Satara Road, have expressed their growing impatience for the line to become operational, highlighting the urgent need for adherence to project timelines.
The addition of the two new stations has also led to a significant cost escalation of approximately $81.8 million (₹683 crore), increasing the total project cost to over $436 million (₹3,637.6 crore) from the initial $354 million (₹2,954.5 crore). This additional expense is expected to be shared by the Central government, the state government, and the Pune Municipal Corporation. Critics from opposition parties have pointed to the delayed commencement of groundwork, linking it to the upcoming civic polls and questioning the government’s commitment to expediting major infrastructure projects to alleviate the city’s increasing traffic congestion. Once started, the project is slated for completion in four years.
This delay in a critical urban connectivity project highlights the complexities of infrastructure development. Ensuring timely execution, equitable funding, and transparent communication are essential for public trust and for the seamless expansion of modern transport networks that are vital for Pune’s sustainable growth.
