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Pune's public transport system is set to receive a major boost, as Minister of State for Urban Development, Madhuri Misal, announced plans to add two new Metro stations on the busy Katraj-Swargate route. This initiative aims to improve the city's Metro network, ease traffic congestion, and provide residents with faster and more reliable transport options.
New Metro Stations on Katraj-Swargate Route
The two proposed Metro stations, Sahakarnagar-Bibvewadi and Balajinagar, will expand the original plan that included three stops-Marketyard, Padmavati, and Katraj. This change has already gained support from Pune Municipal Corporation's standing committee, which has backed the station at Balajinagar.
Misal highlighted the urgency of the project, with the tendering process expected to conclude by March and construction work starting shortly after. This underground Metro corridor is seen as a key step in addressing Pune's traffic challenges.
Accelerating Metro Work
During a meeting with Pune Metro officials, including Managing Director Shravan Hardikar and Infrastructure Director Atul Gadgil, Misal stressed the importance of expediting the Katraj-Swargate corridor. She assured that work orders will be issued right after the tendering process, ensuring that construction begins within two months.
Misal also proposed reconnecting the Swargate MSRTC bus stand with the Swargate Metro station, which was left out of the original plan. This link is expected to create smoother connections between buses and Metro services, offering commuters a more integrated transport system.
New Metro Corridors in the Pipeline
The state government is reviewing two additional Metro corridors: Vanaz to Chandani Chowk and Ramwadi to Wagholi-Vitthalwadi. These routes are awaiting Central government approval, which Misal anticipates will be granted soon. If approved, these extensions will expand Pune's Metro network significantly, covering more areas and reducing traffic pressure on the city's roads.
Comprehensive Public Transport Upgrades
Misal emphasized that the inclusion of the two new Metro stations on the Katraj-Swargate route will be carefully studied to ensure feasibility and maximum benefit for residents. Alongside the Metro project, the government is also working to improve Pune's bus transport system, creating a comprehensive plan to address the city's growing mobility needs.
These initiatives demonstrate a strong commitment by the state government to modernize Pune's public transport system. With faster construction timelines, new Metro corridors, and better connectivity between buses and Metro services, Pune is on the path to a more efficient and interconnected urban mobility system. These efforts promise a significant transformation in how the city tackles its traffic and transportation challenges.
