The Maharashtra government has sanctioned two new underground metro stations at Bibvewadi and Balajinagar on the Swargate–Katraj corridor. The project is estimated at Rs 683.11 crore, with the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) contributing Rs 227.42 crore, the state government providing Rs 116 crore, and the balance Rs 341.13 crore to be financed through loans.

Deputy Chief Minister and Pune district guardian minister Ajit Pawar said the move would significantly improve accessibility for residents of Bibvewadi and Dhankawadi, among the most densely populated localities in the city.

The Swargate–Katraj corridor initially planned for only four stations, leaving out highly populated areas such as Dhankawadi, Balajinagar, Bibvewadi, and Bharti Vidyapeeth. Following strong demands from local leaders, PMC submitted a revised proposal, which has now been approved by the state government.

The state government has also approved relocating the Katraj metro station by 471 metres from its original site. Further, in-principle approval has been granted for loans to fund the Vanaz–Chandni Chowk and Ramwadi–Wagholi corridors, while the government will bear loan costs for the Khadakwasla–Swargate–Hadapsar–Kharadi corridor.

Officials said the expansion will enhance last-mile connectivity and ease traffic congestion in rapidly growing parts of Pune.

News source: Pune Pulse