Pune Metro Launches ‘Matrushakti Nursing Pods’ To Support Traveling Mothers
Pune Metro Launches 'Matrushakti Nursing Pods' To Support Traveling Mothers
Pune, 2 February 2025: Today marks the day when Pune Metro took a significant step for female passengers with the inauguration of the ‘Matrushakti Nursing Pod’ at its stations. The initiative was inaugurated on February 2, 2025, by Hon. Meghana Bordikar, Minister of State, Government of Maharashtra, at the District Court Interchange Metro Station. Pune Metro’s Director, Atul Gadgil, gave a brief overview of the Pune Metro project to the MoS. General Manager Captain Rajendra Saner-Patil and other officials of Pune Metro were also present at the event. This initiative has been launched in collaboration with the Social Thumb Foundation.
Earlier, on September 29, 2024, Prime Minister inaugurated the underground corridor of the first phase of Pune Metro. The first phase, covering 33.2 km, is now operational for passenger service. Pune Metro currently records a daily ridership of 1,60,000, with a significant number of female passengers, many of those travel with young children/infants.
Breastfeeding in public places has always been a challenge for mothers due to the lack of privacy, hygiene concerns, and social discomfort. Many mothers struggle to find a safe and comfortable space to nurse their babies while traveling, making their journeys stressful. To address this issue, Pune Metro has installed ‘Matrushakti Nursing Pods’ at stations, making it easier for mothers to travel without worrying about breastfeeding or childcare needs. To further support mothers traveling with infants, Pune Metro will be installing more nursing pods at various metro stations soon.
These pods are fully air-conditioned, equipped with fans, and designed to be easily portable. Each pod can accommodate two mothers at a time, allowing them to breastfeed their babies or change their diapers. Additionally, electrical charging points have been provided for traveling mothers who need to express. The pods are equipped with fire-resistant systems, diaper-changing stations, diaper disposal bins, and diaper vending machines to ensure a convenient experience for mothers. For enhanced safety and privacy, ‘safety locks’ have been installed.
During the inauguration, Hon. Meghana Bordikar stated, “Pune Metro is a world-class public transport system that the city has received. It is clean, affordable, and well-maintained. By setting up these Matrushakti Nursing Pods, Pune Metro has provided an essential facility for breastfeeding mothers. Now, mothers can comfortably nurse their babies and take care of their needs while traveling without any inconvenience.”
From the Social Thumb Foundation, Anushree Jawanjar, Amruta Ubale, and Amol Karambe were also present at the event.
