Pune Metro Phase I: Kasba Peth and Kalyani Nagar Stations Transform Urban Connectivity
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Pune Metro’s Phase I achieved major milestones in 2024 with the inauguration of two crucial stations: Kasba Peth on the Purple Line and Kalyani Nagar on the Aqua Line. These additions have significantly improved urban connectivity, offering Pune residents a faster, safer, and more convenient travel experience.
Kasba Peth Metro Station: Preserving Heritage While Enhancing Connectivity
Inauguration Date: September 29, 2024
Location: Southern terminal of the Purple Line’s north-south corridor
Challenges During Development
Originally planned as Budhwar Peth station, it was renamed due to its location in Kasba Peth.
Local residents opposed the station due to concerns about potential impacts on homes and historic structures, citing existing nearby stations like Civil Court and Mandai.
Solutions and Construction Highlights
MahaMetro addressed concerns by relocating the station to land previously allocated for the Dadoji Konddev Primary School.
Tunneling Work:
Tunnel boring machines (TBMs) commenced operations in July 2021, tunneling beneath the Mutha River from Civil Court to Kasba Peth.
A third TBM completed its breakthrough from Swargate in June 2022.
A pedestrian subway was built to connect Sattoti Chowk to the station, ensuring safe access for commuters.
Impact
Kasba Peth station has managed to retain the area’s historic essence while providing improved connectivity, benefiting local residents and enhancing accessibility to Pune’s heritage areas.
Kalyani Nagar Metro Station: Facilitating Seamless East-West Connectivity
Inauguration Date: March 6, 2024
Location: Elevated eastern terminal of the Aqua Line
Key Features and Integration
Connected to the Rainbow Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) for convenient multimodal travel.
Offers easy transfers to the Purple Line at the Civil Court station.
Accessibility Improvements
In June 2024, a new Entry/Exit Gate (Gate No. 3) was introduced, featuring a footbridge for safe road crossings.
Impact
Kalyani Nagar station has emerged as a critical transit hub, providing seamless access to key residential and commercial zones across Pune.
Pune Metro Phase I: Transformative Benefits
- Enhanced Connectivity: Better access to residential, commercial, and historic areas.
- Multimodal Integration: Smooth transfers to other transit systems like BRTS.
- Preservation of Heritage: Balanced infrastructure development while safeguarding Pune’s historic charm.
- Improved Accessibility: Features like pedestrian subways and footbridges ensure commuter safety and convenience.
- Reduced Traffic Congestion: Encourages a shift from private vehicles to public transport.
A Vision for the Future
The completion of Pune Metro Phase I, marked by the launch of Kasba Peth and Kalyani Nagar stations, signifies a major leap forward in urban mobility. By addressing local concerns and integrating thoughtful design, the metro has paved the way for a more connected, sustainable, and commuter-friendly city.
