Pune: The much-awaited Hinjawadi-Shivajinagar Metro corridor, spanning 23.3 km, is expected to be operational by October 2025, according to the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA). With 82% of the work completed, officials claim the metro will help ease traffic congestion in Pune’s IT hub. However, commuters will have to endure traffic jams for another eight months until the project is fully operational.
The metro’s duct installation and track laying have been completed. Work on 23 stations, including escalators, signal systems, and electrical infrastructure, is in its final stage. Trial runs are scheduled for September, with full-fledged operations expected from October.
PMRDA undertook this metro project to ease congestion between Hinjawadi’s IT hubs, industrial areas, and Shivajinagar. Developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, the project faced multiple delays due to land acquisition, approvals, tenders, and contractor inefficiencies. After imposing penalties on contractors, the government extended the deadline by six months. Since July 2024, work has gained momentum, with the final stages focusing on stations at Baner, Sakal Nagar, and Civil Court.
The 23 metro stations along the route include:
Facilities at these stations include escalators, waiting areas, seating, commercial zones, and dedicated parking.
With heavy congestion near Balewadi, Ganeshkhind Road, Shivaji Chowk, and the Hinjawadi Flyover, the metro is expected to provide relief for daily commuters. The third rail system and regenerative braking technology will make it a safe and eco-friendly transport option. The fully air-conditioned metro coaches, manufactured by Alstom in Andhra Pradesh, are designed for commuter comfort.
While the metro promises long-term traffic solutions, citizens will need to wait another eight months before experiencing relief from Pune’s notorious congestion.