Pune Metro Expansion Gathers Pace with Rs 839 Crore Allocation for Nigdi and Katraj Extensions
Pune’s ambitious metro expansion projects are gaining momentum, thanks to a substantial allocation of Rs 838.96 crore for the 2025-26 fiscal year. With this financial boost, the Pune Metro network is set to stretch further into the city, reaching more areas in both Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad. The funding will primarily be used to fast-track the PCMC-Nigdi and Swargate-Katraj extensions, which are crucial to expanding the metro’s reach across the region.
Maha Metro, the agency in charge of the Pune Metro project, is set to make the most of this financial boost, with the majority of the funds allocated to these two key extensions. The Union Government’s share of the allocation will be released in phases, in accordance with the progress of the construction works. In addition, the funds will also cover the completion of unfinished portions of phase-1 routes. The successful opening of the PCMC to Swargate and Vanaz to Ramwadi routes in October 2024 has already enhanced connectivity within the city. The next step in the plan involves extending the metro lines further, with groundwork already underway for the Pimpri-Nigdi extension. Meanwhile, the Swargate-Katraj underground metro route is expected to begin within the next two to three months.
With the increased allocation, Maha Metro is optimistic about meeting its ambitious deadlines. The Pimpri-Nigdi stretch is expected to be completed within the next two and a half years, helping to ease congestion and provide a reliable public transport option for commuters in the north-western parts of the city. The impact of the fully operational metro routes has already been significant. In January 2025, the daily ridership on the two existing routes surged to 1.60 lakh passengers, showcasing the growing demand for metro services that connect the east-west and north-south corridors in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad. However, despite the success, there are calls for improving last-mile connectivity to metro stations. Local residents, such as Santosh Sakhare from Nagar Road, have urged the Maha Metro administration to use part of the funds for the procurement of midi buses. These buses would serve shorter routes connecting localities near metro stations, ensuring a smoother and more accessible commute for passengers.
“While the metro expansion is a positive step, we need better connectivity to the stations, especially for those living in nearby areas,” Sakhare said. This concern is shared by many commuters who feel that the lack of last-mile transport options limits the metro’s overall effectiveness. Maha Metro has acknowledged the importance of last-mile connectivity and is working to integrate smaller transportation options into its system. Additionally, the agency is fast-tracking the completion of studies for newly proposed metro routes to ensure that the city’s metro network can continue to grow. In addition to metro development, the city is also making strides in improving its environmental infrastructure. The Centre has allocated Rs 230 crore for the Mula-Mutha pollution abatement project, which aims to improve water quality and reduce pollution in the river. A significant portion of this budget, combined with a loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency, will fund the construction of sewage treatment plants (STPs) this year, helping to tackle the growing environmental challenges in the region.
With the metro expansion plan in full swing and the additional allocation for environmental projects, Pune is on track to become a more connected and sustainable city. As officials continue to focus on infrastructure development, the vision is clear: improving daily life for citizens by enhancing public transport and addressing environmental concerns. The coming years will see significant changes in the city’s transport and environmental landscape, and residents and commuters alike are eager for the positive impact these projects will have on their daily routines. Whether it’s the growing metro network or efforts to improve water quality, Pune is steadily moving towards a more connected and sustainable future. The Rs 839 crore allocation for Pune Metro’s extension projects is a significant step forward for the city’s infrastructure. With ongoing improvements and an ambitious vision for future growth, Pune is set to become a model of modern urban connectivity, offering better transport options and contributing to environmental sustainability. As work progresses, residents can look forward to a more connected and convenient Pune in the years ahead.
