Ajit Pawar Proposes Metro Line-3 Extension to Uruli Kanchan to Reduce Traffic on Pune–Solapur Highway
Pune: Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has suggested extending the Pune Metro line beyond Loni Kalbhor to Uruli Kanchan, citing rapid population growth and traffic congestion along the Pune–Solapur highway.
“Urbanisation in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad is accelerating, and infrastructure planning must keep pace,” Pawar said on Friday.
At present, the Pune Metro operates 33 km of track, with another 33 km under construction. The proposed extension is part of the Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP) for the Pune Metropolitan Region, prepared by Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (Maha-Metro). The CMP envisions 312 km of metro and metro-light corridors across the city by 2054, along with improvements to roads, bus rapid transit, cycling lanes, and pedestrian facilities.
Uruli Kanchan, known for its BAIF research centre and agricultural roots, has been rapidly urbanising. Officials say the metro extension could reduce congestion, improve regional connectivity, and support balanced growth in eastern Pune.
“We will assess the feasibility of extending the route from Loni to Uruli Kanchan in phases and prepare a detailed project report. Once PMRDA submits a request, the process will move forward,” said Pune Metro official to media. “This will benefit daily commuters and create new economic opportunities in the eastern corridor.”
