Now PMRDA Targets July 15 Launch for Hinjawadi–Baner Stretch of Pune Metro; Plans Regional Water Supply Scheme for Metropolitan Region

Reported by Mubarak Ansari
Akurdi, 10th June 2026: The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) will focus on three key priorities in the coming months—strengthening infrastructure, easing traffic congestion, and improving administrative transparency across the Pune Metropolitan Region.

As part of this push, the first phase of the much-awaited Pune Metro Line 3, connecting Maan-Hinjawadi to Baner (Ramnagar), is expected to be opened for passengers by July 15, PMRDA Metropolitan Commissioner Dr. Abhijit Chaudhari announced on Wednesday.

Addressing a press conference at PMRDA’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Hall, Dr. Chaudhari provided updates on several major projects, including Metro Line 3, the Inner Ring Road, water supply initiatives, monsoon preparedness, and action against unauthorized constructions and hoardings.

He said work on Metro Line 3, which will eventually connect Maan-Hinjawadi to Shivajinagar, is progressing rapidly and is expected to become fully operational by December 2026. The first phase comprises 12 stations between Maan-Hinjawadi and Baner (Ramnagar). The Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) is scheduled to conduct technical inspections and safety audits between June 15 and 20.

“Based on the CMRS observations and approvals, the service will be launched by the end of June or, in any case, by July 15,” Dr. Chaudhari said. To improve last-mile connectivity, wider and pedestrian-friendly footpaths are being developed around the first seven stations.

To improve administrative efficiency and ensure faster disposal of citizen-related work, PMRDA is introducing a Single Window Inward-Outward System. The technology-driven platform will allow authorities to track the movement of files and identify delays in real time.

Dr. Chaudhari also announced that PMRDA is expected to receive 70 clerical staff through the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC), while additional officers will join on deputation. This will help all divisional offices function at full capacity.

Addressing traffic congestion in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, he said PMRDA has decided to take the lead in executing key road projects in Chakan, where traffic bottlenecks have become a major concern. Regarding the proposed Ring Road, discussions on land acquisition are underway at the highest levels.

“We will not undertake any incomplete or half-planned land acquisition process. The procedure will begin only after all technical and legal issues are resolved,” he said.

The proposed twin tunnel project for Pune is currently awaiting approval from the Pune Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (PUMTA). The feasibility report has been submitted, and after suggested modifications are approved, it will be forwarded to higher authorities. The project is being implemented by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), with PMRDA providing support.

To address long-term water supply challenges across the metropolitan region, PMRDA is preparing a Regional Water Supply Scheme alongside Town Planning (TP) schemes for rapidly growing areas. The authority is coordinating with the Maharashtra Jeevan Pradhikaran and the Irrigation Department for the project.

As part of its river rejuvenation initiative, PMRDA plans to curb river pollution in two phases. Polluting drains will be intercepted, and sewage will be treated through Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) before being discharged into rivers.

Tenders for the project are expected to be floated soon. Dr. Chaudhari said PMRDA is awaiting central assistance but will begin work using its own funds if necessary.

Ahead of the monsoon, major drains in the Hinjawadi IT Park area have been identified and cleared to prevent waterlogging. Joint inspections involving MIDC, gram panchayats, and PMRDA have been conducted to assign responsibilities. Structural audits of all bridges within PMRDA limits have also been completed.

In a move to improve enforcement and transparency, PMRDA has started using AI-based VMSC (Virtual Surveyor Mobile Capture) drone survey technology to identify unauthorized hoardings and flex boards. The system will enable accurate mapping and monitoring of illegal advertisements.

“Hoarding owners will be directed to obtain the necessary permissions. Failure to comply will result in removal of the structures and registration of criminal cases,” Dr. Chaudhari warned.

Other Key Decisions
* PMRDA will provide funding for rural road repairs under the Pune Grand Tour initiative.
* At least one affordable housing project will be implemented in every taluka within the metropolitan region.
* Ten fire stations have been proposed across the PMRDA region, and work on these facilities is progressing.
* Construction of the POCSO Court building is expected to be completed by the end of September 2026.