Pune’s newly operational Metro Line 3 has reversed its decision to prohibit bicycles inside trains following criticism from cyclists, IT professionals and commuters. The operator, Pune IT City Metro Rail Limited (PITCMRL), has decided to allow passengers to carry bicycles on the Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar corridor, addressing concerns about last-mile connectivity.
The decision comes just days after the operator announced a bicycle ban, triggering questions about the city’s approach to sustainable transport and integration between cycling and public transportation.
Puneri Metro Withdraws Bicycle Ban
Puneri Metro initially announced that bicycles would not be permitted inside its trains on November 5, the second day of passenger operations. The announcement attracted criticism on social media, with commuters questioning why the new corridor had a different policy from Pune’s existing metro lines.
Following the public response, the operator reconsidered its position and withdrew the restriction.
PITCMRL officials explained that the initial decision was based on an assessment of expected demand and operational requirements. The management had estimated that only around 10 to 12 passengers might carry bicycles daily and had initially prioritised the convenience of regular commuters.
However, the operator subsequently decided that allowing bicycles would be practical given their expected numbers and the demand for better connectivity between metro stations and nearby destinations.
Why Cyclists Opposed the Restriction
The bicycle ban had raised concerns among cyclists and office-goers, particularly those travelling to Hinjewadi’s information technology hub.
Many commuters use bicycles to cover the distance between their homes, workplaces and public transport stations. Prohibiting bicycles on trains could have made it difficult for some passengers to complete their daily journeys without depending on autos, taxis or private vehicles.
The restriction also attracted attention because Maha Metro, which operates Pune’s existing Purple and Aqua lines, has allowed passengers to carry bicycles since 2021, subject to conditions.
Under its guidelines, bicycles can be carried by hand inside metro coaches, provided they do not obstruct movement or inconvenience other passengers.
Line 3 Connects Hinjewadi With Shivajinagar
The 23.2-km elevated Metro Line 3 connects Maan in Hinjewadi with Shivajinagar through 23 stations. The corridor is designed to improve connectivity between Pune’s major IT hub and central parts of the city.
Passenger services began on November 4, 2026. The new corridor recorded approximately 50,000 passenger journeys on its first day, with District Court emerging as the busiest station.
The route also provides access to important destinations, including Wakad, Baner and Balewadi, making last-mile transportation an important consideration for commuters.
Bicycle Access Supports Sustainable Mobility
Allowing bicycles on Line 3 brings its policy closer to the arrangements already available on Pune’s other metro corridors.
The facility could benefit office employees, students, cyclists and sports enthusiasts who combine cycling with public transport.
However, passengers carrying bicycles will need to ensure that they do not obstruct other commuters or interfere with train operations.
The reversal highlights the importance of considering commuter feedback while developing integrated urban transport services.
Summary
Puneri Metro has reversed its bicycle ban on Line 3 following criticism from cyclists and commuters. The decision allows passengers to carry bicycles on the 23.2-km Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar corridor. The earlier restriction had raised concerns about last-mile connectivity, particularly for IT employees. The revised policy brings Line 3 closer to the bicycle-friendly arrangements followed by Pune’s existing metro lines
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