Pune: After years of delays, construction on the long-awaited Swargate–Katraj underground metro corridor is set to begin within the next three to four months. While a symbolic inauguration had been held earlier by Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of state elections, actual groundwork had not progressed—until now.
The Pune Metro authority, MahaMetro, has now reissued the construction tender for the 5.46-kilometre underground stretch after facing criticism over the exclusion of two important stations—Padmavati and Bibwewadi. Following strong public demand and intervention from Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar, both stations have been added back to the plan. Contractors have been given 40 days to respond to the revised tender.
Project Highlights:
Route Length: 5.46 km
Number of Stations: 5 (including Padmavati and Bibwewadi)
Estimated Project Cost: ₹3,647 crore
Additional Cost for Reinstated Stations: ₹683 crore
Construction Period: 4 years
Target Completion: 2029
The Maharashtra government has committed to covering the additional expenses involved in accommodating the two new stations, reflecting a stronger commitment to community needs.
According to MahaMetro officials, construction work is expected to commence within a few months of the tendering process being completed. The inclusion of previously omitted stations was a direct response to feedback from local citizens, and the agency is now preparing for the project’s next phase.
Once operational, the metro line will offer a faster, more efficient, and sustainable travel option for commuters between Swargate and Katraj. The development is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion and improve public transport in Pune’s southern corridor.
