Pune Metro Line 3 has completed end-to-end trial runs across its entire 23 km elevated corridor linking Hinjawadi and Shivajinagar under a public–private partnership formed under the New Metro Policy, 2017. The completion of full corridor trials marks a major milestone as authorities prepare for commercial operations that are expected to transform urban mobility in Pune.

Major construction and systems milestones are complete. Viaduct construction is finished and all 23 station structures are ready while entry and exit works are at advanced stages. Track laying, third-rail electrification and signalling have been finished, and the rolling stock passed oscillation trials conducted by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and secured approvals from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety and the Ministry of Railways to operate at a maximum speed of 85 kmph. The trial runs have demonstrated the corridor’s readiness for passenger services.

The line will open in phases, the first covering a 13.3 km stretch between Maan and RK Laxman Museum with 12 stations, which authorities expect to be ready by June 2026 subject to statutory approvals. A subsequent phase will extend service to District Court station to enable integration with the Maha Metro network. Once fully operational the metro is expected to cut travel time between Shivajinagar and Hinjawadi to around 45 minutes from the current 90 minutes, reducing the journey by more than 50 per cent.

The project features Communications-Based Train Control, Make in India rolling stock and smart ticketing with sustainability measures such as rooftop solar, rainwater harvesting and electric vehicle charging. Partners have planned last-mile connectivity and an inclusive staffing model with operations run by an all-women cadre of train operators; Keolis has recruited nearly 100 women. Project leadership said the corridor will provide a faster, safer and sustainable mode of transport for thousands of commuters including IT professionals, students and residents.