Pune’s Metro Dreams Advance: New Routes Approved, Await State and Central Nod
Pune, 22nd August 2023: In a significant stride toward enhancing Pune city’s metro connectivity, the Standing Committee and General Assembly of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) have granted approval for the expansion of the metro network, encompassing routes spanning Vanaj to Chandni Chowk, Ramwadi to Wagholi, Khadakwasla to Kharadi, and Paud Phata to Manikbagh. With these proposals greenlit, they are now in the hands of Mahametro, awaiting the necessary approvals from both the Maharashtra State Government and the Central Government.
Mahametro, responsible for Pune city’s metro network expansion, has meticulously crafted the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the Khadakwasla to Kharadi, Paud Phata to Manikbagh, Vanaj to Chandni Chowk, and Ramwadi to Wagholi routes. These DPRs were initially submitted to the PMC in 2022.
The rigorous review process included soliciting feedback from nine different departments. Following the incorporation of necessary recommendations and modifications, the proposals secured approval from the Standing Committee on August 4th, followed by endorsement from the General Assembly on August 14th.
The amendment of the Metro Act facilitates fundraising through loans, ensuring minimal financial encumbrance on the Municipal Corporation. The Corporation’s responsibility lies in facilitating land acquisition, with the financial burden limited to this aspect. The proposed expenditure for the construction of both these routes totals Rs 12,683 crores.
In a recent meeting between officials from the Municipal Corporation and Mahametro, the revised DPRs for these two lines were formally submitted to Mahametro. The onus now rests on Mahametro to navigate the approval process involving the state and central governments.
Despite the progress, the construction work by Mahametro has inadvertently led to the deterioration of rain drains, sewage channels, footpaths, and roads. However, the restoration of these amenities is anticipated to be addressed by Mahametro. Notably, Mahametro owes Rs 150 crore to the Municipal Corporation, a sum slated to be recouped to cover the costs of these repairs, with the remaining funds directed towards Mahametro’s endeavors, according to Pune Municipal Commissioner Vikram Kumar.
He underscored, “With the municipal corporation greenlighting the extended metro lines, these proposals have been officially submitted to Mahametro today. This marks the commencement of the subsequent stages in obtaining metro approval.”
Metro Route Overview:
- Vanaj to Chandni Chowk: 1.2 km
- Ramwadi to Wagholi: 11.63 km
- Estimated Expenditure: Rs 3609 crores
- Khadakwasla to Kharadi: 25.86 km
- Paud Phata to Manikbagh: 6.11 km
- Estimated Expenditure: Rs 9074 crores
