Pune Metro Line 3 Phase 1 to open for public by mid-July, says PMRDA

PMRDA Metropolitan Commissioner Dr Abhijit Chaudhari on Wednesday shared updates on major ongoing projects. Pic/Special Arrangement

The first phase of the much-awaited Pune Metro Line 3 between Maan-Hinjawadi and Baner (Ramnagar) is in its final stage of completion and is scheduled to be opened for public by mid-July, officials said.

They said that the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) was focusing on infrastructure development, traffic management and administrative transparency to improve governance and urban planning across the region.

PMRDA Metropolitan Commissioner Dr Abhijit Chaudhari shared updates on major ongoing projects during a press briefing held at the authority's headquarters.

Pune Metro Line 3 to begin operations in July

Dr Chaudhari said the first phase of the much-awaited Pune Metro Line 3 between Maan-Hinjawadi and Baner (Ramnagar) is in its final stage of completion with:

- 12 stations included in Phase 1

- CMRS safety inspections scheduled between June 15-20

- Expected commissioning by end of June or latest by July 15

He added that the full corridor is expected to become operational by December 2026. Improved pedestrian access and wider footpaths are also being developed around the first seven stations.

Single window system to improve governance efficiency

PMRDA will soon introduce a Single Window Inward-Outward System to improve administrative efficiency and transparency.

The system will enable real-time tracking of files and reduce delays in public work approvals. The authority will also address staff shortages with new recruitment through the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) and deputation appointments.

To address congestion, particularly in Chakan's industrial area, PMRDA will directly undertake key road development projects.

Discussions are ongoing regarding land acquisition for the proposed Pune Ring Road, which will proceed only after legal and technical clearances are completed.

Twin tunnel project awaiting approval

The proposed twin tunnel project for Pune is currently awaiting clearance from the Pune Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (PUMTA).

The feasibility report has been submitted, and further modifications will be incorporated before sending it for final approval. The Pune Municipal Corporation is the implementing agency, while PMRDA is providing technical support.

Water supply and river rejuvenation plan

PMRDA is preparing a regional water supply scheme to address shortages in villages and areas under Town Planning schemes.

The authority is also working on a river rejuvenation project involving sewage interception and wastewater treatment before release into rivers, in coordination with the Maharashtra Jeevan Pradhikaran and the Irrigation Department.

Major drainage channels in Hinjawadi IT Park have been cleared to prevent waterlogging during the monsoon.

Joint inspections have been conducted with MIDC and local bodies, while structural audits of bridges under PMRDA jurisdiction have also been completed.

PMRDA has deployed AI-powered drone survey technology (VMSC - Virtual Surveyor Mobile Capture) to detect illegal hoardings and flex boards.

The officials said that the unauthorised structures will be removed, and violators may face demolition action and legal proceedings if permissions are not obtained.

Other key announcements

- Funding for rural road repairs under Pune Grand Tour initiative

- Affordable housing project in every taluka

- 10 new fire stations planned for emergency response

- POCSO Court building to be completed by September