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The launch of the first phase of the Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar Metro is likely to be delayed again, making it unlikely to start operations on the planned July 15 date. Although the mandatory inspection by the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) has been completed, the project is still waiting for the final safety clearance before commercial services can begin.
Pune's Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar Metro Got Delayed
The first phase covers a 12-station stretch between Maan and Balewadi. Metro trains can start operating only after the CMRS submits its inspection report and the final safety certificate is issued.
Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) Commissioner Abhijit Chaudhari said that even after the safety report is received, it will take around 15 days to begin passenger services. He added that he will personally inspect all 12 stations to ensure that any pending work is completed before the Metro opens.
This is the latest delay for the 23-km Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar Metro corridor, which has now missed its completion deadline five times. In March, the Maharashtra government decided to open the project in phases. Under the revised plan, the Maan-Balewadi section was scheduled to open first on July 15, while the remaining 11 stations would be opened later.
Opening of Pune Metro Line
Earlier this year, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had announced that the Metro would open in two phases, with the first phase expected in May and the second in July. However, the May deadline was postponed to the end of June and later shifted to July 15. Since the final safety approval is still pending, the latest target is also expected to be missed.
Daily Commuters have been left stranded
The repeated delays have left commuters frustrated, especially IT professionals who travel daily to Hinjewadi and face heavy traffic. Many say they have heard several launch dates over the past few months, but the Metro service is yet to begin.
Daily commuters said they are tired of repeated announcements and changing timelines. They had hoped the Metro would reduce travel time and traffic congestion, but every delay means spending more time on crowded roads. Many now hope that the pending safety clearance is issued soon and that the first phase finally becomes operational without any further postponement.