The long-awaited remodelling of Pune Railway Station has gained momentum as railway authorities have finalised the technical blueprint for the project, marking a crucial step towards modernising the station’s yard and platform infrastructure.
The tendering process for various components of the project is expected to commence shortly, signalling that the long-pending overhaul is finally moving forward. According to officials, the first phase of construction work is likely to begin between February and March next year. The decision to initiate the project after the peak travel season stems from the heavy influx of passengers into Pune during summer holidays, especially from other states. Railway authorities postponed the project to avoid causing major disruptions to travellers. The Pune yard remodelling project has remained under discussion for several years, with growing demand for capacity expansion and improved amenities. Now, with the technical blueprint approved by the Engineering Department of Indian Railways, the stage is set for actual execution.
“As part of the remodelling, the Pune railway administration has also planned to expand certain sections of the station. Two new platforms are slated for construction, while four existing platforms will be extended to handle longer trains,” a senior railway official confirmed on the condition of anonymity. “We are committed to minimising inconvenience during construction, particularly around peak travel times,” he added. In anticipation of temporary disruption, the Railway Ministry has instructed that development work at Hadapsar and Khadki stations be completed on priority. These terminals will serve as alternate boarding and alighting points during the execution phase. This move is aimed at easing pressure on Pune Junction, which currently handles a significant volume of long-distance and intercity rail traffic. Despite planned mitigation efforts, the administration has acknowledged that several train services may be cancelled or diverted during the construction period. However, officials say the long-term benefits, including better handling of passenger load, enhanced train turnaround times, and upgraded infrastructure, will outweigh the temporary inconvenience.
The project also aligns with broader national goals of sustainable and efficient urban transport systems. With increasing population density and urban growth in Pune, the station’s transformation is seen as critical to supporting the city’s mobility and economic expansion. While passengers may face short-term challenges once the work begins, the planned improvements aim to deliver a more seamless travel experience in the years to come.