After several delays over the past few months, authorities had earlier indicated that the first phase of the metro route would start operations on June 15. However, fresh updates now suggest the service may begin only in July.
This would mark the fifth time the deadline for Pune Metro Line 3 has been pushed forward.
Back in March, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had stated that most of the metro work between Hinjawadi and Shivajinagar was nearing completion.
Officials had also announced that the metro corridor would open in two phases.
The launch timeline was initially shifted from April to May and later to June. Now, commuters are likely to face further delays as important safety tests and approvals are still pending.
According to an official communication from PMRDA, permission has been sought for CMRS testing of Metro Line 3.
The safety inspection and trial process is expected to take place by the end of May or early June. Officials said the approval process after testing could take nearly one month.
Because of this, authorities now estimate that the metro route may become operational only by July.
The delay is expected to disappoint lakhs of daily commuters, especially employees travelling to the Hinjawadi IT Park, one of Pune’s biggest employment hubs.
The 23-kilometre-long Metro Line 3 includes a total of 23 stations. Since completing all stations together was not possible, authorities had earlier decided to open the project in phases.
Under the first phase, only 12 stations between Hinjawadi and Balewadi were expected to start operations initially. The remaining 11 stations were earlier planned to open around October.
However, with the first phase itself getting delayed again, uncertainty remains over the timeline for the second phase as well.
Officials said around 90 per cent of the metro project work has been completed so far.
Authorities have also indicated that the upcoming Maharashtra Legislative Council elections and the enforcement of the model code of conduct could further affect the inauguration schedule.
Once operational, the metro line is expected to provide major relief to commuters travelling through Hinjawadi, Wakad, Baner and Shivajinagar, areas that regularly face heavy traffic congestion.
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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!
