Timely Completion of Pune Metro Line-3 Project : PMRDA, PITCMRL and Pune Police urges Collaborative Efforts
Timely Completion of Pune Metro Line-3 Project : PMRDA, PITCMRL and Pune Police urges Collaborative Efforts
Progress and Current Challenges
The Pune Metro Line-3 project, designed to connect Hinjewadi and Shivajinagar, is now slated for completion by March 2025. According to the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) and Pune IT City Metro Rail Limited (PITCMRL), which are overseeing the project, 60% of the work has been completed to date. However, the slow pace of construction has sparked concerns about whether the remaining 40% can be finished on time.
Initially, the deadline for the elevated metro line was November 2024, but delays led to an extension to March 2025. In its September budget, PMRDA highlighted slow progress as a significant issue. Officials acknowledge that building the metro line through busy areas like Balewadi, Baner, and Ganeshkhind Road has presented substantial challenges, contributing to delays.
Traffic Congestion and Public Frustration
The ongoing construction has exacerbated traffic congestion in Pune, particularly around key construction zones. Yogesh Mhase, PMRDA Commissioner, stated, “PITCMRL is lagging behind schedule as per their commitment. The work was slowed during the monsoon, but efforts have accelerated since November. They are now preparing a micro-plan detailing how the project will meet the March 2025 deadline.” Currently, construction is underway at ten metro stations along the route.
Pune Police have also raised concerns about traffic jams caused by metro construction. Commissioner Amitesh Kumar has urged metro officials to expedite the project, instructing them to complete key works within three months. A meeting held between Pune Police and Metro Administration officials underlined the need for swift action to reduce traffic congestion, especially in areas like Range Hills Kopra on Ganeshkhind Road.
Future Benefits and Ongoing Efforts
Despite the delays, officials are optimistic about the metro’s benefits once operational. The Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar metro line will significantly reduce travel time between these two locations, bringing it down to just 35-40 minutes. PMRDA had initially planned a trial run on the 8-km stretch from Maan to Wakad in September 2023 after completing track plinth installation on 8.5 km. However, the deadline was missed due to unforeseen challenges.
Efforts are being made to accelerate the remaining work, with officials emphasizing the need to overcome hurdles such as labor shortages, monsoon disruptions, and technical challenges. According to PITCMRL, the project’s completion will not only alleviate traffic issues but also provide a modern, efficient transportation solution for Pune’s growing population.
While the Pune Metro Line-3 project is progressing, the delays have raised valid concerns about its timely completion. Stakeholders, including PMRDA, PITCMRL, and Pune Police, are urging collaborative efforts to ensure the March 2025 deadline is met. The city’s residents, currently burdened by traffic congestion, await the metro’s completion with the hope that it will transform daily commutes and ease urban transportation challenges.
