Govt of India cabinet approves ₹2,954 crore Pune Metro Phase 1A Project

Pune, India (Metro Rail Today): The Central Government of India has officially approved the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the 5.46 km extension of Pune Metro’s Purple Line, connecting Swargate to Katraj. This development, part of the Pune Metro Phase 1 Extension project (Phase 1A), will significantly enhance the city’s metro network.

The Swargate-Katraj extension will be entirely underground and include three new stations: Market Yard (Gultekdi), Saibaba Nagar, and Katraj. The project is estimated to cost ₹2,954.53 crore and is set for completion by February 2029.

Funding Structure

The funding for the extension has been finalized with contributions from various sources:

• Government of Maharashtra (Equity): ₹398 crore
• GOM Interest-Free Loan: ₹116 crore
• Pune Municipal Corporation Grant (Land Acquisition): ₹181 crore
• Government of India (Equity): ₹398 crore
• GOI Interest-Free Loan: ₹116 crore
• Institutional Loan: ₹1,540 crore

Integration and Connectivity

The new corridor will connect seamlessly with the Swargate Multimodal Hub, which encompasses the Metro Station, MSRTC Bus Stand, and PMPML Bus Stand. This integration will facilitate smoother transfers for commuters using multiple modes of transport.

The extension will serve a variety of important destinations, including bus stops, railway stations, recreational centers like the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park and Taljai Hillock, shopping malls, residential areas, educational institutions, and major business hubs. It is expected to offer a faster and more economical transportation option for daily commuters, including students, small business owners, and professionals.

Projected Ridership and Development Progress

The Swargate-Katraj extension is projected to handle significant passenger traffic, with estimated daily riderships of 95,000 in 2027, 158,000 in 2037, 187,000 in 2047, and 197,000 in 2057.

PINI India was awarded a ₹6.84 crore contract in March 2024 for Detailed Design Consultancy (DDC) services for the extension. Designs for civil construction are anticipated to be completed by Q4 2024. Additionally, Myrtle Project and Consultancy conducted geotechnical investigations along the route in May-June.

Next Steps

The project now hinges on Maha-Metro securing financing for the ₹1,540 crore institutional loan, which represents approximately 52% of the total cost. Once financing is secured, Maha-Metro will publish tender notices for construction, marking the next phase of this ambitious project.

The approval of the Swargate-Katraj extension marks a significant milestone for Pune’s metro network, promising enhanced connectivity and improved public transportation. With the detailed planning and funding now in place, the project is poised to transform urban mobility in Pune, benefiting thousands of commuters and supporting the city’s continued growth.