A new ‘Rikshamitra Metro Share Rickshaw Feeder Service’ was launched outside SNDT Metro Station in Pune on Friday, offering passengers a shared and organised auto-rickshaw facility for their last-mile journey
Maharashtra minister Chandrakant Patil addresses Pune residents during the inauguration of the shared rickshaw feeder service at SNDT Metro Station. PIC/BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
Finding an auto after stepping out of the metro may soon become easier for commuters. A new ‘Rikshamitra Metro Share Rickshaw Feeder Service’ was launched outside SNDT Metro Station in Pune on Friday, offering passengers a shared and organised auto-rickshaw facility for their last-mile journey.
In a move aimed at easing last-mile connectivity for Pune Metro commuters, authorities launched the Rikshamitra shared autorickshaw feeder service outside SNDT Metro Station on Friday.
The service will allow passengers to directly access shared rickshaws from a dedicated booth outside the station and travel to nearby residential areas at affordable fares.
The booth was inaugurated by Maharashtra Higher and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Patil in the presence of Pune Mayor Manjusha Nagpure, Maha Metro Managing Director Shravan Hardikar and Director (MMI) Anilkumar Kokate, among others.
Following the inauguration, Patil flagged off the first batch of autos under the feeder service. He also assured that drivers operating through the Rikshamitra booth will be provided compressed natural gas (CNG) coupons to support their fuel expenses.
Officials said the service aims to bridge the gap between metro stations and nearby neighbourhoods — one of the key challenges faced by daily metro commuters.
Mayor Nagpure said such feeder services should be expanded to other metro stations across the city, particularly to support commuters from areas like Sinhagad Road.
Local representatives also requested authorities to include important localities from their wards as designated drop points under the shared rickshaw network.
Officials said the initiative is based on the success of the Rikshamitra booth started earlier at Pune Railway Station, which received a positive response from passengers. Encouraged by the response, the model is now being extended to metro stations as well.
Authorities believe the initiative will make metro travel more convenient for commuters while also creating steady earning opportunities for autorickshaw drivers.
What Pune commuters get
Shared auto-rickshaws outside the metro station
Fixed pick-up point at SNDT station
Affordable shared fares
Easier last-mile travel to nearby areas
Why the service matters
Tackles the last-mile connectivity issue faced by metro users
Reduces waiting time for autos
Encourages more people to use public transport.
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