What is Causing Delays in Hinjawadi-Shivajinagar Pune Metro Line 3? Project Overview, Current Status, and Revised Launch Timeline
The much-anticipated Pune Metro Line 3 project connecting the Hinjawadi IT hub to Shivajinagar is facing notable delays, pushing its completion timeline further. Initially planned for November 2024, the integrated flyover essential for the project is now expected to be finished by April 2025, according to the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA). This delay impacts the operationalization of the entire 23-kilometer elevated metro corridor, which aims to reduce travel time between Hinjawadi and Shivajinagar to just 35-40 minutes.
Project Overview
Pune Metro Line 3 is the city’s first Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) project awarded under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model in alignment with the Metro Policy 2017. It spans 23.2 kilometers with 23 stations, connecting the IT hub of Hinjawadi with Pune’s central business district in Shivajinagar. The project is being executed by Pune IT City Metro Rail Limited (PITCMRL), a special-purpose company established for a 35-year concession period.
Key highlights of the project:
- Length: 23.2 kilometers
- Stations: 23
- Operator: PITCMRL (a Tata Group initiative with Siemens Project Ventures)
- Estimated Cost: ₹7,420 crore
- Completion Timeline: Now projected for March 2025
Causes of Delay
Several factors have contributed to the delay in project execution:
- Integrated Flyover Construction: The integrated flyover spanning 1.7 kilometers is a critical component of the metro line. The delay in constructing ramp and deck slabs, coupled with pending permissions, has pushed back its completion to April 2025.
- Traffic Challenges: Heavy vehicular traffic along key routes has hindered the deployment of heavy machinery and construction activities, particularly at Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) Chowk.
- Permission Delays: Utility relocation and right-of-way approvals have consumed significant time. Additionally, the festival season and elections delayed permissions for activities like steel girder placement.
- Traffic Disruptions: Locations such as Baner Road have experienced congestion due to metro pillar installations. Efforts to shift or adjust the placement of certain pillars, such as those near Sancheti Hospital and Mahabaleshwar Hotel, have faced logistical constraints.
Current Progress and Status
Approximately 75% of the flyover work is complete. Authorities are focusing on operationalizing the stations between Maan and Balewadi Highstreet by April 2025. However, challenges persist near University Chowk, where road widening and the relocation of power poles are necessary.
The government has directed the PMRDA and PITCMRL to expedite the completion of the flyover from SPPU to E Square junction. Measures such as round-the-clock construction, especially during public holidays, have been proposed to fast-track the process.
Financial Backing
The project has received substantial financial support:
- Initial viability gap assistance of ₹400 crore
- An additional ₹200 crore approved by the Centre
- Total funding commitment of ₹1,200 crore from the Centre, with ₹600 crore already disbursed
Future Impact
Once completed, Pune Metro Line 3 will revolutionize public transportation in Pune, offering a quick, efficient, and eco-friendly alternative for daily commuters. The line is expected to significantly alleviate traffic congestion and improve connectivity between residential areas, IT hubs, and business districts.
Conclusion
Despite the delays, authorities remain committed to completing the Pune Metro Line 3 by the end of 2025. The project represents a significant step forward in Pune’s urban development, promising enhanced mobility and sustainable transportation solutions for its residents.
