Rutuja Florence Balewadi, Pune

Pune Metro Line 3: Hinjewadi-Baner Stations to Open by July 15, Full Operations by December 2026

The first phase of Pune Metro Line 3, covering 12 stations between Maan (Hinjewadi) and Ramnagar (Baner), is slated to become operational by July 15, 2026. The remaining stations, including Shivajinagar, are expected to open by August, with the entire line operating at full capacity by December 2026.

Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar Metro Line Nears Launch, Operations to Begin in Phases

The 23-km Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar Metro corridor is nearing completion, with the first 11-km stretch expected to become operational in May 2026 and the remaining 12-km section in July 2026. This phased launch is due to ongoing work at several stations and safety approvals. The project,aims to improve connectivity between Pune's IT hub and the city center.

Pune Infrastructure Projects Advance: Bridges, Flyovers, and Expressway 'Missing Link' Nearing Completion

Several infrastructure projects in and around Pune are progressing towards completion. One of the two new river bridges on the Mutha River at Warje on the Mumbai-Bengaluru Bypass is complete ,awaiting final testing, Balewadi-Kaspate Wasti bridge over the Mula-Mutha river, is expected to complete in an year. Pune University Square flyover is targeted for completion in 2026 ,easing traffic to Shivajinagar, Aundh, Baner, and Pashan.

Pune Metro Line 3 Nears Completion, Expected to Open by March 2026

Construction on the Hinjawadi–Shivajinagar Metro Line 3 in Pune has reached 90% completion. The 23.3 km elevated corridor is anticipated to open by March 2026. This project aims to provide a direct rail alternative to the congested roads connecting Hinjawadi's IT hub with Shivajinagar, potentially reducing travel time and easing traffic on major routes. This is expected to benefit daily commuters and boost real estate in surrounding areas.

Balewadi's Infrastructure Enhancements Focus on Connectivity and Liveability

Balewadi has seen infrastructure improvements, including road widening, new drainage lines, and junction upgrades, which have eased congestion and reduced monsoon-related issues. The area's liveability has also been enhanced with more public spaces and parks. Future plans include integrating Balewadi with Pune's transport network through metro connectivity and improved bus links.

Pune Metro Line 3 is set to become India's first metro corridor operated exclusively by women train pilots under a 10-year contract awarded to Keolis by Pune IT City Metro Rail Limited (PITCMRL). A team of 100 trained women pilots will operate the trains on the Hinjawadi–Shivajinagar corridor, which is expected to begin services by March 2026. Keolis will maintain 22 Alstom-manufactured trains, 23 stations, and the ticketing system.

A Pune Metro project contractor, identified as Tata Projects Ltd, has been fined ₹15 lakh for dumping construction debris in Balewadi [i, 2, 11, 15, 20, 23]. Approximately 60 truckloads of debris were dumped in an open area near Balewadi High Street. The PMC has instructed the contractor to pay the fine and remove the debris immediately.