Pune Metro’s Hinjawadi–Shivajinagar Line Set for Phased Launch by April 2026

Pune Metro’s Hinjawadi–Shivajinagar line expected to open in phases by April 2026, easing traffic and improving connectivity in Pune.

Pune | 20 February, 2026- Pune’s much-anticipated metro corridor connecting Hinjawadi’s IT hub to Shivajinagar is now set for a phased opening by April 2026, marking a significant milestone in the city’s urban mobility transformation. The 23.3-kilometre elevated metro line, part of Pune Metro’s Line 3, is expected to begin operations in stages rather than through a single full-route inauguration. Authorities have opted for this phased strategy to ensure that completed sections become operational at the earliest, offering relief to lakhs of daily commuters who currently struggle with severe traffic congestion along the Hinjawadi-Wakad-Baner-Shivajinagar stretch.

The corridor, being developed under a public-private partnership model by the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA), includes 23 stations connecting major commercial and residential hubs. Once fully operational, the line will significantly reduce travel time between Hinjawadi Phase 3 and Shivajinagar, a journey that often takes more than 90 minutes during peak hours. With metro connectivity, the commute is expected to shrink dramatically, making daily travel more predictable and efficient for IT professionals and office workers.

Construction progress has reached advanced stages across most sections of the route. Trial runs have already been conducted on completed stretches, with systems such as signalling, electrification, and safety protocols undergoing rigorous testing. Officials indicate that more than 80 percent of the project work is complete, with finishing touches underway at several stations, including platform infrastructure, escalators, elevators, ticketing systems, and passenger amenities.

The decision to roll out the metro line in phases comes after sustained demand from commuter groups and IT employee associations, who urged authorities to open ready segments instead of waiting for total project completion. The initial operational stretch is likely to include major stations in the Hinjawadi and Baner region, where daily traffic bottlenecks are most severe. Additional sections will become functional progressively as remaining works are completed and mandatory safety certifications are secured.

Before commercial operations begin, the metro corridor must receive clearance from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS), a statutory requirement for all metro rail projects in India. Following inspection and approval, passenger services are expected to commence on the first completed stretch, with subsequent expansions rolled out in stages over the following months.

Urban planners view the Hinjawadi–Shivajinagar Metro as a transformative infrastructure project for Pune. Hinjawadi houses one of India’s largest IT clusters, employing thousands of professionals across multinational companies. The lack of reliable mass transit has long been a concern, with road infrastructure struggling to cope with rising vehicular traffic. The new metro corridor is expected to reduce congestion, lower vehicular emissions, and promote sustainable commuting.

Integration with existing Pune Metro lines at interchange stations such as Civil Court will further strengthen the city’s transport ecosystem. Commuters will gain seamless connectivity across key business districts, educational institutions, and residential neighborhoods. Experts believe that once fully operational, the corridor could reshape travel patterns, reduce dependence on private vehicles, and contribute to Pune’s long-term smart city vision.

Although April 2026 marks the target for the phased launch, complete operationalization of all 23 stations may extend slightly beyond that timeline depending on the pace of final construction and safety approvals. However, even partial commencement is expected to bring immediate and measurable benefits to daily commuters.

In conclusion, the phased opening of the Hinjawadi–Shivajinagar Pune Metro line represents a decisive step toward easing traffic congestion and modernizing urban transport infrastructure. With testing in advanced stages and approvals underway, Pune is preparing to witness a major upgrade in its public transportation landscape, promising faster, safer, and more sustainable commuting options for thousands of residents.

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