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Pune Metro will increase train frequency during the upcoming Ganeshotsav festival because passenger numbers are expected to rise. During peak hours, trains on the PCMC-Swargate and Vanaz-Ramwadi routes will run every five minutes, instead of the current six-minute interval.
Pune Metro's New Operations
Currently, Pune Metro trains run every six minutes during peak hours, which are 8 am to 11 am and 4 pm to 8 pm. During the remaining operating hours, trains run every ten minutes. The new five-minute frequency will begin during the Ganesh festival and may continue afterwards depending on passenger demand.
Pune Metro currently operates on two main corridors. The PCMC-Swargate corridor is 17.5 km long, has 14 stations, and takes around 34 minutes to travel from one end to the other. The Vanaz-Ramwadi corridor covers 14.5 km, has 16 stations, and takes about 37 minutes. Both routes operate from 6 am to 11 pm every day.
According to Pune Metro Public Relations Officer Chandrashekhar Tambavekar, trial runs for the increased frequency are already being conducted. The decision has been taken because passenger numbers have been increasing, particularly during peak hours.
Pune Metro's Future Plans
Pune Metro is also getting ready for future ridership growth by introducing six-coach trains to replace the existing three-coach trains. The stations have already been designed to accommodate longer trains, although some changes to the signalling system are required. Expansion work is also underway. The PCMC-Nigdi extension is expected to open next year, while work has begun on the underground Swargate-Katraj extension. In addition, approvals have been received for the proposed 25.52-km Line 4 from Kharadi to Khadakwasla and a 6.12-km spur line from Nal Stop to Manikbaug via Warje.
Metro Line 3, connecting Hinjewadi and Shivajinagar, has received safety clearance but is still awaiting the final approval needed for its inauguration.