Pune Metro Line 3 Trial Run Reaches Shivajinagar, Deadline Question Still Looms
Hinjawadi–Shivajinagar corridor achieves key testing milestone, but station readiness remains a major concern despite 90% work claim.
Pune Metro Line 3, the much-awaited Hinjawadi–Shivajinagar corridor, has reached an important milestone as trial runs have now been carried out right up to Shivajinagar station, the end point of the line. The development has raised hopes for faster connectivity between Pune’s IT hub and the city centre, even as questions remain over whether the project can meet its deadline.
The corridor, spanning 23.3 km and fully elevated, is expected to link Pune District Court in Shivajinagar with Hinjawadi IT Park. It is being seen as a major relief for commuters who face heavy traffic congestion across Wakad, Hinjawadi, Balewadi, Baner and surrounding areas.
A major highlight of the latest trials was the sight of the Line 3 train passing above a Line 2 train, underlining the growing integration of Pune’s expanding metro network. Shivajinagar is also expected to become a busy interchange point, connecting Line 3 with the operational Aqua and Purple lines via the District Court station.
Officials have claimed that nearly 90% of the work on the metro line has been completed. A key achievement came earlier on January 8, 2026, when a technical trial run was successfully conducted on a 19 km stretch between Maan Depot in Hinjawadi and University Chowk.
The next critical step for the project is clearing the RDSO tests, followed by inspection and approval from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS). Only after CMRS certification will the line be cleared for public use.
While the viaduct construction and train trials are reportedly progressing well, concerns persist about station infrastructure. According to residents’ observations and available updates, several stations along the route remain significantly behind schedule, with incomplete finishing and pending works raising doubts about operational readiness by 31st March, 2026.
With Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis having directed PMRDA to ensure timely completion, pressure is mounting on the implementing agency to bridge the gap between trial success and full passenger rollout.
Disclaimer: This report is based on official updates and public observations; timelines may change as inspections and final clearances are completed.
