An integrated transport plan has been formulated for the 2,550-sq km region encompassing Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority. This initiative aims to enhance connectivity and streamline transportation networks across the area. The implementation of the plan is structured in three phases, with an estimated investment of Rs 1.26 trillion. Key components of the plan include metro expansion, strengthening the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal (PMPML), expanding bus rapid transit (BRT) corridors, and improving railway routes. Additionally, traffic management enhancements will be introduced in high-traffic areas such as Pune, Shivajinagar, Chinchwad, and Talegaon railway stations. To ensure efficient access to the upcoming international airport at Purandar, a railway line extension from Rajewadi station on the Satara route has been proposed. This connection is integrated into Pune’s and the district’s comprehensive mobility strategy. The plan also includes an outer railway bypass linking Talegaon and Daund in two phases. The initial phase will establish a feeder service between Talegaon and Shikrapur via Uruli Kanchan, followed by a railway extension from Shikrapur to Daund in the subsequent phase. On the Satara route, Jejuri and Rajewadi stations are situated near the proposed airport, with Rajewadi identified as the most feasible location for a dedicated railway spur line to facilitate direct access to the airport. Enhancements to the Pune-Lonavala railway corridor are expected to optimize traffic management by utilizing the outer railway bypass more effectively. Additionally, the plan includes the proposed relocation of the passenger terminal from Fursungi station on the Pune-Miraj route to Shindawane, further improving regional transportation infrastructure. News source: The Indian Express