The first phase of the Maan–Hinjewadi to Shivajinagar stretch of Pune Metro Line 3, comprising 12 stations, is expected to become operational by June after a recent review by the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority. The authority is aiming to complete the required works by the end of May under the supervision of its newly appointed commissioner, Abhijit Chaudhari. The review identified remaining tasks and set firm timelines for completion of station works and associated passenger access. Officials have emphasised adherence to safety and quality standards as the project moves towards commissioning.

While 12 stations are anticipated to be ready by the end of May, work on the remaining 11 stations is progressing in parallel and the full 23.2-km elevated corridor is likely to be operational by September. Progress has been hindered at some locations by delays in completing entry and exit points together with passenger access infrastructure. The authority has prioritised completion of these elements to enable safe and efficient passenger movement.

PMRDA has directed the concessionaire, Tata Group, to accelerate construction and to align resources to meet the schedule. The Line 3 project, which will improve connectivity to Hinjewadi IT Park, is in its final stages with about 94.2 per cent of the overall work completed. Signalling trials are currently under way alongside inspections of systems and facilities to ensure operational readiness. Contractors have been instructed to expedite remaining civil and electromechanical works without compromising inspection protocols.

Officials indicated priority is being given to station access, passenger facilities and operational systems ahead of the planned June rollout and contingency measures are being reviewed to mitigate weather related risks. The line is expected to ease traffic congestion on the Hinjewadi–Shivajinagar corridor and significantly reduce commute times for thousands of IT professionals who currently face lengthy journeys. Some commuters remain sceptical about the June launch and have pointed to the approaching monsoon and pending work as potential causes for delay. The authority has signalled continued monitoring and a mission mode approach to fast track execution in line with state direction.