Pune's Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar Metro Line Achieves 94% Completion, Trial Runs in Full Swing
In a significant development for Pune's urban infrastructure, the 23-kilometer Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar Metro Line has reached an impressive 94% completion rate, with trial runs already underway across the entire route. Senior officials from the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) confirmed this progress on Saturday, highlighting the accelerated efforts to meet the targeted operational deadline of April.
Accelerated Construction and Station Readiness
Work on the corridor's 23 stations has been intensified to adhere to the timeline, with approximately 15 to 17 stations nearing 90% completion. An official stated, "Work across the corridor's 23 stations had been accelerated to meet the deadline." This push includes comprehensive trial runs that have been conducted along the full length of the line, ensuring system readiness for passenger services.
Integration with Existing Network and Pending Approvals
Developed through a partnership between PMRDA and the Tata group–led Pune IT City Metro Rail Ltd, this new line is designed to seamlessly integrate with Pune's existing Metro network at Shivajinagar. However, the commencement of commuter services hinges on the issuance of a final go-ahead letter from the concessionaire. Another official explained, "Commuter services will begin only after the concessionaire issues the required approval letter, which will also clarify whether partial operations, limited to the completed stations, can begin."
Political Oversight and Future Expansion Plans
Recently, Pune MP Murlidhar Mohol reviewed the Metro line's progress and indicated that 13 out of the 23 stations are expected to be operational by April. In addition to monitoring current developments, Mohol has directed officials to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) for a new corridor connecting Khadakwasla to Hinjewadi, aimed at further expanding Pune's Metro network to enhance connectivity and reduce traffic congestion.
This advancement marks a critical step in Pune's transportation evolution, promising improved mobility for residents and bolstering the city's infrastructure framework. As trial runs continue, all eyes are on the concessionaire's approval to kickstart services, potentially as early as next month.
