In a major boost to Pune's public transport, the Maharashtra state government has now approved Phase 2 of Pune Metro in the cabinet meeting on Monday.
The approved Phase 2 includes the following lines: Khadakwasla-Swargate-Hadapsar-Kharadi, SNDT (Nal Stop)-Dahanukar Colony-Warje-Manikbaug. This will now go to the central government for final approval.
Additional, ahead of the Maharashtra assembly polls, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday announced a full toll waiver for light motor vehicles at all five toll booths for entry into Mumbai. Shinde made the announcement at the state cabinet meeting in Mumbai.
Details of Phase two
The Khadakwasla - Swargate - Hadapsar - Kharadi and Nal Stop - Warje - Manikbagh routes have been approved, covering a total distance of 31.64 km with 28 stations. An investment of ₹9,897.19 crores will be made for both routes. After receiving approval from the state government, the proposal has now been sent to the central government.
The Khadakwasla - Swargate - Hadapsar - Kharadi route measures 25.518 km and will feature 22 stations, with an expenditure of ₹8,131.81 crores allocated for this route. In Phase 2, the Nal Stop - Warje - Manikbagh route will be 6.118 km long and include 6 stations, with ₹1,765.38 crores earmarked for its development. Both routes will be completely elevated.
On this occasion, Shravan Hardikar, Managing Director of Maha-Metro, stated, "Currently, traffic congestion is being observed on Sinhagad Road, Karve Road, and Solapur Road. These metro lines will help reduce congestion in these areas. Additionally, residents will have quick and safe access to locations such as Pimpri Chinchwad, Ramwadi, Vanaz, and Swargate."
As the city keeps to struggle with the traffic congestion, the Pune metro has brought a major relief to the residents, especially those traveling from Pimpri Chinchwad to Pune. However, for a common Punekar to get a complete relief a lot has to be done including quicker completion of new routes, better parking facilities, and feeder bus services are essential.
At present, a few routes in the city are complete, some are under construction, and others are awaiting permissions. now, the approval by the state government to the Phase two of the metro is a very big news for residents.
Meanwhile, Union Minister and Pune MP Murlidhar Mohol has thanked the state government and stated, "These two metro lines have been approved by the coalition government in the cabinet meeting, and this will strengthen the metro network in Pune city."
He expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Ajit Pawar for their decisions to empower Pune's public transport.
