Pune: Delays Persist in Swargate-Katraj Metro Extension, While PCMC-Nigdi Stretch Progresses

Pune, 28th April 2025: While the PCMC-Nigdi Metro extension is making steady progress, with Maha Metro recently beginning the launch of viaduct segments near Chinchwad, the Swargate-Katraj extension is experiencing significant delays. As of now, it appears unlikely that any work will begin on this stretch before the monsoon season.

According to Maha Metro officials, construction on the 5.4-km Katraj extension, which will feature five stations, will not commence until after the monsoon. The process of appointing an execution agency is still ongoing, and a re-tendering process had to be initiated last month due to the recent sanctioning of two additional stations along the route, which necessitated the procedural step.

“We have started the tendering process, but it will take at least a couple of months to complete the required formalities,” said a Maha Metro official.

The Swargate-Katraj section, planned as an underground stretch, is expected to ease travel for commuters traveling from the southern parts of the city towards Pimpri Chinchwad. Despite the groundbreaking ceremony taking place last year, tangible progress has been slow.

Officials from Maha Metro remain optimistic about progress on both extensions. “Most of the hurdles have been cleared for the PCMC-Nigdi stretch. We are coordinating with the PCMC to ensure spaces for the entry and exit points of the four stations proposed on this extension. We expect the stretch to be ready in the next two and a half years,” the official said.

The majority of the PCMC-Nigdi viaduct has been aligned over the old Pune-Mumbai road. The stations along this stretch will be located at Chinchwad, Akurdi, Nigdi, and Bhakti Shakti Chowk.