Preparatory work for the Ramwadi Wagholi metro extension has begun, with barricading now in place near Ramwadi Metro station on Nagar Road as authorities prepare to carry out geotechnical investigations and soil testing before construction starts. The temporary enclosures mark the start of preliminary activity along the corridor and officials have signalled that surveys will inform design and traffic plans. Work is being staged to allow investigations to proceed while maintaining vehicular movement on the arterial route.

The first phase will cover a four point seven-kilometre stretch connecting Ramwadi to Tuljabhavani Chowk, with four stations planned at Vimannagar, Somnathnagar, Kharadi Bypass and Tuljabhavani Chowk. The corridor will start just ahead of the existing Ramwadi station and will largely trace the path of Nagar Road, with much of the viaduct set to be constructed above the existing carriageway. The metro line will form part of a double-decker structure, sitting above a six-lane elevated road along the same stretch.

While the extension is expected to improve connectivity along Nagar Road, it has raised concerns among commuters and residents about traffic disruption during construction. Many anticipate that barricading and reduced road width could add to congestion on a stretch that already experiences wrong-side driving, bottlenecks at major junctions and slowdowns caused by U turns between Yerawada and Wagholi. Local representatives have called for clear staging and communication to minimise disruption to daily travel.

Commuters have urged the authorities to put in place a proper traffic diversion and management plan alongside the construction work to ensure ongoing congestion on Nagar Road does not worsen once barricading and digging proceed in full swing. Officials are reported to be coordinating with traffic police and civic agencies to finalise diversions, signal adjustments and signage ahead of major activity. Careful staging, timely information and enforcement of lane discipline will be necessary to balance construction progress with the needs of road users.