Pune Metro Line III Completion Likely Delayed to September 2025 Due to Construction Hurdles
The much-anticipated Pune Metro Line III project, which is set to connect Hinjawadi to Shivajinagar, will likely face a significant delay, with the completion now expected to be pushed back to September 2025. This delay comes after the concessionaire requested an extension beyond the original target date of March 2025. Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) officials confirmed that ongoing construction challenges, compounded by heavy traffic congestion along the route, are major contributors to the postponement.
The 23-kilometre Metro corridor, which is crucial for alleviating traffic in Pune, has made substantial progress, with 74% of the overall construction completed. However, one of the critical components, the integrated flyover between University Chowk and E-Square junction, is only 65% finished. This flyover is vital for the Metro’s seamless functioning, as it includes essential ramp and deck slabs that are still under construction.
Delays in obtaining necessary permits for various stretches, such as the installation of steel girders at Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) Chowk, have further hindered the progress. These delays have been exacerbated by traffic disruptions, particularly during busy periods such as election seasons and Diwali, when construction work is often suspended. Despite the continuous review meetings and additional manpower being deployed, the lack of sufficient clearances and traffic congestion have significantly slowed down progress. Local residents have voiced their frustration over the delays, as they continue to face significant traffic disruptions due to ongoing construction activities. The situation has become even more stressful as road-widening projects and traffic diversions, though planned, have not provided enough relief for commuters.
A key issue that has been impeding progress is the need for multiple clearances for construction, including the shifting of utilities and obtaining right-of-way approvals. In particular, the University Chowk stretch has faced challenges in removing utility poles and widening the road, further delaying the work. The state government, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, is actively reviewing the revised timeline. While the government has previously stressed the urgency of completing the project, especially ahead of upcoming elections, they have acknowledged the challenges posed by the ongoing construction. The new deadline for the completion of the 1.7-km flyover, which is crucial for the functioning of the Metro, is now set for April 2025.
In the interim, Metro stations between Maan and Balewadi High Street are expected to be operational by April 2025, offering some relief to commuters in these areas. However, the real hurdles remain in the University Chowk stretch, where road widening and utility removal are still underway. Despite these setbacks, the central government has continued to support the project, approving an additional Rs 200 crore in viability gap funding, bringing the total released amount to Rs 600 crore out of the Rs 1,200 crore initially committed for the Metro project. The completion of Pune Metro Line III is seen as a game-changer for the city, helping ease traffic woes and provide much-needed public transportation options. However, with significant logistical and infrastructural hurdles yet to be overcome, it remains to be seen how quickly the project can be brought to completion.
