Govt. of India approves ₹2,954 crore Swargate–Katraj Pune Metro Extension Project

Pune, India (Metro Rail Today): In a landmark move to enhance urban mobility and curb rising congestion, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the long-awaited Swargate–Katraj extension of Pune Metro Phase 1. The underground metro stretch, spanning 5.46 km, will be implemented by Maha-Metro at an estimated cost of ₹2,954.53 crore, with project completion targeted by February 2029.

The approval marks a critical advancement for Pune’s mass transit ecosystem, particularly for commuters in the city's southern suburbs. The corridor will extend the existing Phase 1 route from Swargate to Katraj, adding three new underground stations at Market Yard, Bibwewadi, and Balaji Nagar. It is expected to drastically reduce travel time, offer safer commuting options, and provide a reliable alternative to private vehicles.

The project will be financed through joint contributions from the Government of India, Government of Maharashtra, and support from bilateral funding agencies, under a public investment model designed for long-term sustainability.

Sharing her views on this development, Mrs. Mamta Shah, MD & CEO of Urban Infra Group, stated, “The Swargate–Katraj extension represents a visionary step in aligning Pune’s growth with sustainable and inclusive urban development. It connects educational, commercial, and residential hubs, while reinforcing the role of mass rapid transit in shaping the future of Indian cities.”

A key highlight of this extension is its integration with the Swargate Multimodal Hub, which includes the MSRTC bus terminus, PMPML local bus station, and the existing metro line, creating a seamless intermodal transport node for thousands of daily passengers.

Beyond improving commute efficiency, the extension promises to deliver substantial environmental and social benefits:

• Reduced road congestion and pollution by promoting public transport over private vehicles

• Safer and faster travel across high-density zones

• Affordable connectivity for students, office-goers, small business owners, and daily wage workers

• Boost to real estate and small business ecosystems in southern Pune

The line will offer improved access to popular destinations like Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, Taljai hill, educational institutions, shopping zones, and public parks—contributing to enhanced quality of life and ease of living.

According to official projections, daily ridership is expected to surge over time:

• 2027: 95,000 passengers

• 2037: 1.58 lakh

• 2047: 1.87 lakh

• 2057: 1.97 lakh

Maha-Metro has already initiated pre-bid activities, with tender documents for civil and electro-mechanical works currently under preparation. Contracts for the first set of packages are expected to be floated soon.

This underground extension is not just a transport project but a strategic urban transformation initiative. It aligns with India's broader vision of sustainable cities, smart infrastructure, and low-carbon development, reinforcing Pune’s ambition to emerge as a modern, commuter-first metropolis.

As Pune continues to expand rapidly, the Swargate–Katraj Metro extension will be a cornerstone in building accessible, connected, and future-ready urban mobility by 2029