In a major boost to metro connectivity in Maharashtra, the Union Cabinet has approved the extension of Pune Metro Phase-1 and the Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project. This decision marks a crucial step towards expanding and modernising the state’s urban transit infrastructure, aiming to provide seamless and efficient transportation for millions of residents.
More Details:
The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, approved two metro projects in Maharashtra, the Swargate to Katraj Underground Line Extension of the existing PCMC-Swargate Metro Line of Pune Metro Phase-I project and the 29-km, Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project corridor which will run along the periphery of west side of Thane city with 22 Stations.
Pune Metro Phase-1 Extension Project:
- This new extension is known as the Line-1 B extension and will span 5.46 km and will include three underground stations, connecting key areas such as Market Yard, Bibwewadi, Balaji Nagar, and the Katraj suburbs.
- The project, aimed at providing seamless connectivity in Pune, is set to be completed by February, 2029.
- The estimated cost of the project is Rs. 2954.53 crore, with funding to be equally shared by the Government of India and the Government of Maharashtra, along with contributions from bilateral agencies, etc.
Enhance Connectivity:
- This extension will integrate with the Swargate Multimodal Hub, which includes the Metro Station, the MSRTC Bus Stand, and the PMPML Bus Stand, providing seamless connectivity for commuters within and outside Pune City.
- This extension will enhance connectivity between the southernmost part of Pune, the northern parts of Pune and the eastern and western regions via the District Court interchange station, providing seamless connectivity for commuting within and outside Pune City.
Benefits:
- The Swargate to Katraj Underground Line will significantly alleviate road traffic congestion and provide a safer, more comfortable travel experience by minimising the risk of accidents, pollution, and travel time, thus supporting sustainable urban development.
- The new corridor will link various bus stops, railway stations, recreational centres like the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, Taljaihillock (tekdi), malls, etc., various residential areas, educational institutions, colleges, and major business hubs.
- It will provide a faster and more economical transport option, benefiting thousands of daily commuters, especially students, small business owners and professionals travelling to offices and business centres.
- This strategic expansion is expected to unlock Pune’s economic potential, providing a significant boost to the city’s infrastructure and contributing to its sustainable development.
- The projected daily ridership on the Swargate-Katraj Line for the years 2027, 2037, 2047, and 2057 is estimated to be 95,000,1.58 lakh, 1.87 lakh, and 1.97 lakh passengers, respectively.
Thane integral Ring Metro Rail Project:
The 29-km corridor will run along the periphery of the west side of Thane city with 22 Stations. The network is encompassed by Ulhas River on one side and Sanjay Gandhi National Park [SGNP] on the other. This connectivity would provide a sustainable and efficient mode of transport, facilitating the city to realise its economic potential and ease traffic congestion on the roads. The project is also expected to contribute to reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Project Cost & Funding:
- The estimated cost of the project is Rs.12,200.10 crore, with equal equity from Government of India and Government of Maharashtra as well as part-funding from bilateral agencies.
- Funds would also be raised through innovative financing methods such as by selling Station naming and access rights for corporate, monetization of assets, Value Capture Financing route.
- The corridor that connects major business hubs would provide an effective transport option for a large section of employees. The Project is likely to be completed by 2029.
- More importantly, the Metro line would benefit thousands of daily commuters, especially students and those commuting every day to office and work areas by providing faster and economical transport options.
- The project would result in total daily ridership on the metro corridors for the years 2029, 2035 and 2045 by 6.47 Lakh, 7.61 lakh & 8.72 lakh passengers respectively.
Maha-Metro will Execute the Project:
Maha Metro will execute both of the projects, along with civil, electro mechanical, other associated facilities, works and related assets. Maha-Metro has already started the pre-bid activities and preparation of tender documents. The contracts will be floated immediately for bidding.
Conclusion:
These approvals mark a significant advancement in Maharashtra’s urban infrastructure, demonstrating a strong commitment to modernising transportation. The timely execution of these projects by Maha-Metro will enhance connectivity, offer safer and more efficient travel options, and drive economic growth in Pune and Thane, paving the way for a more sustainable urban future.
Source: PIB – Press Release | Image Credit (representational): Pune Metro
