June 25 – The Union Cabinet on Tuesday approved Phase-2 of the Pune Metro Rail Project, paving the way for the construction of two new elevated corridors aimed at significantly improving east–west connectivity in the city. The move is expected to ease traffic congestion, enhance public transport access, and support Pune’s rapid urban expansion.
The expansion will add a total of 43.93 km to the existing metro network and will be implemented by the Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MahaMetro). The project is estimated to cost ₹8,628 crore and will be completed over a period of five years.
According to a government statement, Phase-2 will consist of the following corridors:
- Line 4: Swargate to Lohgaon (via Pune Airport) – 17.5 km
- Line 5: Katraj to Khadakwasla – 26.43 km
Both corridors will be fully elevated and are designed to integrate seamlessly with the currently operational sections of Phase-1, which includes the PCMC–Swargate and Vanaz–Ramwadi lines.
The approval comes after the proposal was cleared by the Public Investment Board (PIB), following which it was placed before the Union Cabinet for final clearance. Officials said the project will be funded through a combination of central and state government contributions, along with loans from international lending institutions.
Urban development experts have welcomed the Centre’s decision, stating that it will help decongest major arterial roads and promote the use of sustainable public transport. The corridor connecting Swargate to Pune Airport via Lohgaon is particularly expected to benefit air travelers and residents in eastern Pune. Meanwhile, the Katraj–Khadakwasla line will serve densely populated residential and educational areas in the south-western part of the city.
With Pune being one of India’s fastest-growing metropolitan regions, the metro expansion aligns with national priorities of promoting sustainable, low-emission transport infrastructure. Authorities expect the new corridors to significantly reduce private vehicle usage, resulting in better air quality and lower carbon emissions.
The Pune Metro Phase-2 project is expected to generate thousands of jobs during the construction and operational phases. Additionally, it will play a key role in supporting Pune’s Smart City goals and improving quality of life for daily commuters.
Construction is likely to begin soon after necessary clearances and tenders are issued, officials added.
