Pune Metro Expansion Gains Momentum with ₹517 Crore Federal Funding.

The Union Budget has allocated an estimated ₹517 crore for the Pune Metro project, paving the way for its Phase-II expansion in the 2026-27 fiscal year. Currently, 33 km of the network across two routes are operational in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad.

Maha Metro is simultaneously fast-tracking the remaining work for Phase-I. Officials are awaiting a detailed breakdown of the budget allocation before finalizing a comprehensive spending plan, though they indicated that ongoing Phase-I works would be prioritized.

The 4.5 km Pimpri-Nigdi elevated line is expected to be completed by next year, with around 50% of construction already finished. Meanwhile, tunnelling work for the Swargate-Katraj underground stretch is scheduled to begin before the upcoming monsoon, following the appointment of a specialised tunnel-boring agency.

On the operational front, daily ridership on the two active lines has consistently exceeded 2 lakh passengers in recent months. While Maha Metro anticipates higher footfall as new sections open, officials said there are currently no immediate plans to increase train frequency on existing routes. Commuters, however, have urged the administration to focus on “last-mile connectivity,” including improved access to feeder buses, autorickshaws, and station parking, to boost ridership further.

Looking ahead, Maha Metro plans to conduct feasibility studies for newly proposed routes during the next fiscal year. Phase-II expansion includes key lines such as Khadakwasla–Swargate–Kharadi, Ramwadi–Wagholi–Vithalwadi, Vanaz–Chandni Chowk, and Nal Stop–Warje, all of which have received Union government approval. The Metro administration is currently preparing detailed execution plans for these lines.