Pune commuters waiting for the much-anticipated Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar Metro corridor may have to wait even longer. After already missing five major deadlines, the project is now facing fresh delays in its phased launch plan, raising concerns among thousands of daily commuters, especially IT professionals travelling between Hinjewadi and central Pune.
Another Deadline Missed For Metro Line 3
The 23-kilometre elevated Metro Line 3, connecting Shivajinagar to Hinjewadi, was originally expected to become operational much earlier. However, repeated construction challenges, pending approvals, and unfinished station work have pushed the project timeline several times.
Authorities had earlier announced a phased launch strategy, with the first section expected to open by May and the remaining stretch by July. The May target was missed, and even the revised June deadline now appears unlikely. Reports indicate that commercial operations may only begin after mandatory inspections and approvals are completed.
Safety Approvals Continue To Delay Operations
One of the key reasons behind the latest delay is the pending inspection by the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS). Although trial runs have already been completed on the corridor, final safety clearance remains necessary before passenger services can begin.
Officials have reportedly submitted requests for inspection, but the approval process itself could take several weeks. This means the first operational phase is now likely to shift further into the monsoon season.
Major Relief Still Pending For IT Professionals
The Metro corridor is considered one of Pune’s most important infrastructure projects because it directly connects the city’s largest IT hub, Hinjewadi, with Shivajinagar and other major residential and commercial zones.
Thousands of employees currently spend hours navigating traffic congestion on the route every day. Many had hoped the Metro would significantly reduce travel time and transportation costs. However, with every missed deadline, frustration among commuters continues to grow.
Project Near Completion, But Uncertainty Remains
Authorities claim that more than 90% of the project has already been completed, with most civil construction work finished. However, some stations, passenger facilities, and approval-related processes are still pending.
While officials remain optimistic about launching the first phase soon, commuters have become increasingly skeptical after multiple revised timelines over the last two years. Many now believe the project will only be considered truly ready once trains begin operating regularly.
Summary
Pune’s Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar Metro corridor has missed another deadline despite multiple timeline revisions and a phased launch plan. Pending safety approvals, unfinished station work, and procedural delays continue to push operations further. While over 90% of the project is complete, thousands of commuters and IT professionals remain frustrated as they wait for the long-promised Metro connectivity.
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