36-Km Ring Line Metro to Feature 44 Stations, Bids Now Open for General Consultant Services

Maharashtra's transport infrastructure has seen significant advancements in recent years, and as the state assembly elections approach, another critical update emerges for citizens, particularly those in Pune. MahaMetro has officially invited bids for the appointment of a general consultant for the much-anticipated High Capacity Mass Transit Route (HCMTR), commonly known as the Ring Line Metro. This ambitious project will encompass a 36-km long route featuring 44 stations designed to encircle Pune city.

Overview of Pune Metro Phase 2

On October 4, the Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation (MMRCL) announced a tender notice for the General Consultant (GC) for Phase 2 of the Pune Metro. The selected consultant will be responsible for various crucial tasks, including design oversight, safety supervision, quality control, and contract management for the Phase 2 project. This consultancy contract is expected to span five years, with an estimated cost of ₹2.4 crore.

Pune Metro’s Package Consul-01 marks the initial significant contract in Phase 2, which has been in development since at least 2021. In September 2022, MahaMetro submitted a draft Detailed Project Report to the Pune Municipal Corporation, outlining several routes that total approximately 82.50 km.

Modifications to the Phase 2 Plan

The plan for Phase 2 has undergone modifications, integrating operational extensions of the existing 14.665 km Aqua Line into the first phase of the project. These include the Vanaz-Chandni Chowk and Ramwadi-Wagholi extensions, which have been fast-tracked as part of the Phase 1 Extension project.

Development of Underground Stations

In addition to the general consultancy, Pune Metro has also announced tenders for the design and construction of underground stations at Market Yard, Padmavati, and Katraj. These stations will be part of the Swargate-Katraj extension of the Purple Line, which currently connects Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation to Swargate.

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for this Swargate-Katraj extension, further highlighting the importance of this project in improving Pune's public transportation network.

As these developments unfold, Pune residents can look forward to a more connected and efficient transport system that promises to enhance the overall commuting experience in the city.