Yerawada to Katraj Twin Tunnel: PMRDA Receives Bids from 3 Firms for Pre-Feasibility Study
Yerawada to Katraj Twin Tunnel: PMRDA Receives Bids from 3 Firms for Pre-Feasibility Study
Pune’s north-south mobility is poised for a major upgrade as the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) moves to finalise the appointment of a consultant for the Yerawada–Katraj twin-tunnel pre-feasibility study. This 20-kilometre underground link promises to alleviate congestion on key arterials like Shankarsheth and Satara roads by offering a direct subterranean route.
Consultant Selection in Final Phase
PMRDA Commissioner Yogesh Mhase confirms that three firms have submitted bids for the critical pre-feasibility assignment. “We are undertaking a detailed evaluation to select the agency best equipped for this phase. Once on board, the consultant will launch a thorough viability analysis ahead of the detailed project report (DPR),” he said.
Comprehensive Study Scope
The pre-feasibility study will span technical, financial, social and environmental dimensions. Key tasks include:
- Traffic flow assessments (current and projected)
- Geotechnical and hydrological surveys across hilly terrain
- Structural evaluation of tunnel-boring challenges
- Seismic and groundwater impact analyses
Public consultations are built into the process to ensure community perspectives guide decisions on land acquisition, displacement concerns and socio-economic impacts. “Community input is critical to developing a sustainable solution that serves all commuters, including under-represented groups,” a senior PMRDA official noted.
Financial Planning and PPP Models
Estimated at around ₹400 crore per kilometre (totaling near ₹8,000 crore), the twin tunnels will support unidirectional vehicular movement in each bore. Funding strategies under consideration include various public-private partnership (PPP) structures and toll-revenue frameworks. Authorities emphasize that any toll proposals will be shaped by socio-economic impact studies and public feedback to protect lower-income commuters and small businesses.
Environmental and Climate Benefits
Urban planners and sustainability advocates welcome the project’s potential to reduce idling-related emissions and fuel consumption, aligning with Pune’s zero-carbon mobility targets. By smoothing traffic flows, the tunnel could play a key role in meeting the city’s long-term climate objectives.
PMRDA’s Civic Recognition
The twin-tunnel initiative builds on PMRDA’s reputation for citizen-centric governance. Under the state government’s 100-Day Action Plan, the authority secured third place across Maharashtra, earning a 76-point score from the Quality Council of India for technological integration, transparency and service delivery. “Our focus remains on accessible, tech-enabled governance,” Mr. Mhase said.
Next Steps
Following preliminary approval at a high-level review chaired by the Chief Minister, the pre-feasibility study is set to define the project’s alignment, design parameters and financing roadmap. Should the process stay on track, construction could begin within two to three years—marking a transformative milestone in Pune’s urban transport landscape.
