The first phase of the PMRDA’s Maan-Hinjewadi to Shivajinagar Metro corridor, covering the Maan to Balewadi section, has received the final safety clearance from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS).
The 12-km section is reportedly ready for passenger operations. The construction work has been completed and the required safety certificate has also been issued. However, the Hinjewadi Metro opening is yet to take place.
The delay is reportedly linked to the availability of senior political leaders for the inauguration. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis recently met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi and invited him to inaugurate the Metro project.
A possible visit by the Prime Minister to Pune in October is now being discussed. If the inauguration is scheduled around that time, passengers could have to wait several more weeks despite the route being technically ready.
The CMRS issued the safety clearance for the section on July 23. Normally, Metro services are opened to passengers within a short period after receiving the safety approval. However, the Hinjewadi-Balewadi section has remained closed despite completing the required technical and safety procedures.
The delay has frustrated IT professionals who travel daily through the Hinjewadi IT corridor. Traffic congestion in the area is already a major concern, and commuters say the Metro could provide much-needed relief.
The Forum for IT Employees has also questioned why the service cannot be started through a virtual inauguration.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier virtually inaugurated Metro sections such as Ruby Hall Clinic to Ramwadi and District Court to Swargate in Pune. IT employees have asked why the same approach cannot be used for the Hinjewadi Metro so that passenger services can begin without further delay.
Another concern is the manpower already deployed at all 12 Metro stations. Employees have reportedly been appointed and their salaries have started, even though passenger services have not yet begun.
This has led to questions among commuters about whether the inauguration date is being given more importance than the daily difficulties faced by citizens.
For thousands of IT employees travelling to and from Hinjewadi every day, the key question now is when the Metro will actually start carrying passengers.
read more at hinjewadi360.com
I’m Priya Agarwal, and I write about everything related to Hinjewadi! From the latest news and events to hidden spots and local businesses, my articles are all about helping you explore and enjoy this vibrant area. Whether you live here or are just visiting, I aim to bring you useful, interesting, and up-to-date information about Hinjewadi. Stay tuned for more!
