Swargate-Katraj Underground Metro Work Begins as Shaft Excavation Starts for TBM Launch

Work on Pune’s much-awaited Swargate-Katraj underground Metro corridor has officially begun, with excavation for TBM launch shafts underway at Swargate. MahaMetro aims to complete the technically challenging project within the planned timeline.

Pune | March 26, 2026: The long-awaited Swargate-Katraj underground Metro project in Pune has moved into active execution, with MahaMetro beginning excavation work for the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) launch shaft at Swargate. Officials confirmed that digging work is progressing at a rapid pace, marking the first major step toward construction of the underground corridor. Once the shaft excavation is completed, the TBM will be lowered underground at Swargate and tunnelling will begin towards Katraj. The corridor is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion in Pune, particularly on the busy Swargate-Katraj stretch, which witnesses heavy daily commuter movement.

The Swargate-Katraj underground corridor forms an extension of the Purple Line and spans 5.46 km. The route will be fully underground and will include key stations connecting major residential and commercial areas such as Market Yard, Bibwewadi, Balajinagar and Katraj. Once operational, it will enable seamless connectivity from Katraj to Nigdi through the Metro network, offering commuters a faster alternative to road travel. The project had received a major boost a few months ago when Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Swargate-Civil Court underground stretch and simultaneously performed the bhoomipujan for the Swargate-Katraj corridor. Following the ceremony, MahaMetro had been preparing on a war footing to initiate ground work, and the launch shaft excavation now signals the beginning of full-scale construction.

MahaMetro officials stated that the project is technically challenging due to underground construction requirements, but modern equipment and advanced tunnelling technology will be used to ensure timely completion. Additional General Manager Chandrashekhar Tambwekar said the shaft work required for the Swargate-Katraj corridor has begun, and MahaMetro is committed to completing the project within the planned deadline so that Metro services can be made available to Pune citizens at the earliest. The start of excavation has increased public anticipation, as commuters await improved connectivity and reduced congestion once the underground Metro corridor becomes operational.

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