Pune Metro Line 3 gets safety clearance for first 13-km stretch between Maan-Balewadi

Passenger services are expected to begin once the remaining operational formalities are completed. Pic/Special Arrangement

The Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) has granted provisional approval for passenger operations on the first section of Pune Metro Line 3, marking a major milestone for the project, officials said.

The approval covers the 13-kilometre elevated corridor between Maan and R K Laxman Museum (Balewadi), which includes 12 stations.

Passenger services are expected to begin once the remaining operational formalities are completed.

The clearance follows detailed statutory inspections, technical assessments and successful trial runs carried out earlier this month.

The CMRS inspected the corridor between July 5 and 8, after which Pune IT City Metro Rail Limited (PITCMRL) submitted compliance reports addressing all observations raised during the inspection.

Modern signalling system

Metro trains on the route will operate at speeds of up to 80 km/h using an Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system under Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) signalling.

The line will use a 750V DC third-rail traction system.

Officials said all major systems, including signalling, telecommunications, rolling stock, civil works and fire safety, received the required certifications before approval was granted.

Officials welcome milestone

PITCMRL Chief Executive Officer Anil Kumar Saini described the approval as a significant achievement for the project.

He said the safety clearance reflects the project's commitment to high standards of safety, quality and engineering, while bringing Pune closer to launching a modern and reliable metro service linking Hinjawadi IT Park with the city.

Expected to ease traffic congestion

PMRDA Metropolitan Commissioner Dr Abhijit Chaudhari said the metro line will help reduce traffic congestion around Hinjawadi IT Park and provide commuters with a faster, safer and more environmentally friendly mode of transport.

He added that efforts are underway to complete the remaining formalities so passenger services can begin at the earliest.