Hinjewadi Metro Work Delayed Again, Likely to Start in 2026

Hinjewadi Metro Work Delayed Again, Likely to Start in 2026

Hinjewadi Metro: The much-awaited Hinjewadi Metro that will connect Pune’s Shivajinagar to Hinjewadi is now delayed once again. The project, known as Pune Metro Line 3, is now expected to start in early 2026, pushing the opening further than planned.

What is the Hinjewadi Metro?

This metro line is a 23-kilometre elevated corridor meant to connect Shivajinagar with Hinjewadi, Pune’s busy IT hub. The route will make daily travel easier for thousands of people who work and live along this stretch.

It is being built under a public-private partnership (PPP) by the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA).

Original and Updated Deadlines

The original plan was to complete the Hinjewadi Metro by 2024. But due to multiple issues, the deadline was extended to September 2025. Now, officials have stated that full operations will likely begin only in early 2026.

How Much Work is Done So Far?

Currently, around 83% to 85% of the total metro construction is completed. But some major parts are still not ready. One of the most important sections — the University Chowk flyover — is still under construction. Work on ramps and deck slabs is also pending there.

Because of this, the construction team has asked for an extension till December 2025 to finish the remaining work.

Trial Runs Still Pending

Before any metro line can be opened to the public, trial runs must be completed. These are safety tests to ensure everything is working properly.

These trial runs can only start after all the major construction is finished. Officials expect these tests to take around 2 to 2.5 months. This means even if construction ends in December 2025, the metro won’t be ready for passengers until sometime in 2026.

Why Is the Hinjewadi Metro Delayed?

The delay isn’t due to just one reason. The project has faced many hurdles:

• Land acquisition problems – Some land needed for the project wasn’t handed over on time. One key plot at Raj Bhavan was only recently made available.
• Relocation of utilities – Shifting water pipelines, electricity lines, and other utilities took more time than expected.
• Slow approvals – Getting permissions from various government departments caused delays.

Frustration Among Local Residents

People living and working along the Hinjewadi Metro route are getting frustrated. The construction has caused traffic jams and daily inconvenience. Some residents and local civic groups have spoken up, saying the delays are affecting their day-to-day lives.

They’ve also raised concerns about how long the work is taking and why the timelines keep changing. Many feel that the authorities could have managed the project better.

What Will the Metro Change?

Despite the delays, officials are confident that the Hinjewadi Metro will be a big help once it’s ready.

Here’s what the metro will improve:

• Better public transport between Shivajinagar and Hinjewadi
• Less traffic on roads, especially during office hours
• Faster travel for IT employees and other regular commuters
• Safer and more reliable journey compared to road travel

The line is expected to take a lot of vehicles off the roads, which can also help reduce pollution and travel stress.

People Are Still Waiting

For now, people have no choice but to keep using cars, bikes, and buses to get to work. Many who travel to Hinjewadi every day were hoping that the metro would ease their travel by 2025, but now they will have to wait longer.

Some say the authorities should provide regular updates so that the public knows what to expect. Clear timelines and better planning could help avoid confusion.

Key Points About Hinjewadi Metro

• Total route: 23 km elevated corridor
• Connects: Shivajinagar to Hinjewadi
• Status: Around 83% to 85% work done
• Major pending work: University Chowk flyover
• Trial runs: Need 2–2.5 months after civil work is done
• New expected launch: Early 2026
• Delays due to: Land, utilities, and approvals
• Benefit: Faster and easier travel between key areas of Pune

FAQs About Hinjewadi Metro

When will the Hinjewadi Metro start?

The Hinjewadi Metro is now expected to begin operations in early 2026.

What is causing the delay?

The delay is mainly because of incomplete work at University Chowk, slow land handovers, and utility relocations.

How long is the Hinjewadi Metro route?

The route is about 23 kilometres long and will connect Shivajinagar with Hinjewadi.

Who is building the Hinjewadi Metro?

The metro is being built by PMRDA under a public-private partnership (PPP) model.

Will it reduce traffic?

Yes, once it is running, the Hinjewadi Metro will likely reduce traffic between Pune’s city centre and its IT zone.

The Hinjewadi Metro could really improve the way people travel in Pune. But the delays are testing everyone’s patience. Many commuters just want a clear date and proper communication from the authorities. For now, the city waits, hoping the metro will finally roll out smoothly in 2026.

To check more about Hinjewadi, Click Here.