Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited and the Pune Municipal Corporation undertook joint site inspections last week along the proposed Vanaz–Chandni Chowk metro extension to assess alignment, station locations and infrastructure requirements before construction. The exercise covered a one point four kilometre stretch that forms part of the approved Phase II expansion.

The extension is planned to include two stations, one near the Kothrud depot and another at Chandni Chowk, and is expected to improve connectivity to a major western entry point of Pune. Officials reviewed platform siting and station access to ensure integration with existing roads and public transport nodes.

Teams examined the alignment of the metro viaduct, station entries and exits, and the interaction with surface traffic, paying attention to pedestrian movement and drop off and pick up zones. Assessments also covered utilities, footpath continuity and commuter access points to minimise disruption once services commence.

A key option under consideration is a double decker flyover carrying vehicular traffic on the lower level with the metro viaduct above to optimise limited right of way and address congestion at Chandni Chowk. Plans include a pedestrian overbridge across the Katraj Dehu Road bypass to improve safe access to the proposed station.

The inspections formed part of preparatory work ahead of tendering and the appointment of a construction agency, with design finalisation required before on ground work begins. Early coordination between civic and metro agencies was said to be essential to reduce construction related disruption and to avoid costly design changes during execution.

Local stakeholder engagement during the visits brought resident input into the design process, particularly on connectivity across the bypass and maintaining traffic flow during works. The Vanaz–Chandni Chowk link, though short, is considered strategically significant for extending the east west Aqua Line beyond Vanaz and enhancing last mile connectivity.