EIB Global Provides €289.5 Million for Nagpur and Pune Metro Expansion

Pune/Nagpur, 17th October 2025: The European Investment Bank (EIB), through its development branch EIB Global, has announced a financing package of €289.5 million to support the expansion of metro networks in Nagpur and Pune. The funding includes a €240 million loan for the Nagpur metro extension and a €49.5 million top-up for the Pune metro, reinforcing the EIB’s commitment to sustainable, safe, and inclusive urban transport in India.

The two projects aim to enhance urban mobility by encouraging a shift from road-based transport to metro systems. This modal shift is expected to reduce carbon emissions, urban air pollution, noise pollution, and road traffic accidents, while offering faster, safer, and more cost-effective commuting options for millions of residents.

In Nagpur, the metro extension is projected to cut CO₂ emissions from the city’s transport sector by 22%. By 2041, daily ridership is expected to reach approximately 190,000 passengers, a 75% increase from current figures. The network expansion will more than double the metro’s length and improve connectivity across the city.

For Pune, the €49.5 million top-up complements a previous EIB investment of €600 million, which funded the construction of two metro lines spanning 33.2 km, with 30 stations and 102 modern metro cars. Since March 2022, the Pune metro has transported over 100 million passengers, offering a reliable and eco-friendly alternative to private vehicles, easing congestion, and enhancing safety and accessibility for women and young commuters.

These operations align with the EU Global Gateway strategy, which promotes sustainable transport as a driver of economic growth, climate action, and improved urban living standards.

EIB Vice-President Nicola Beer said, “By extending Nagpur’s metro and further supporting Pune’s network, we are helping to deliver cleaner air, safer travel and faster connections for millions of people. These projects show how European financing can have a direct impact on people’s daily lives while supporting India’s green transition and climate goals. With more than €3.6 billion committed since 2016, India remains our largest transport partner outside Europe under the EU Global Gateway strategy.”