Pune Metro Extension Work Begins: Vanaz to Chandni Chowk Elevated Corridor Takes Shape
In a significant development for Pune's urban infrastructure, groundwork has officially commenced on the proposed 1.5-kilometer-long elevated Metro extension connecting Vanaz and Chandni Chowk. This marks a crucial step in extending Metro services to the city's western entry point, addressing long-standing connectivity gaps in the region.
Project Details and Construction Phases
Approved last year, this vital section will feature two strategically located stations: Kothrud Depot and Chandni Chowk. Maha Metro officials have outlined that the construction will be executed in carefully planned phases, with barricading installations coordinated in close collaboration with the traffic police. Stringent measures will be implemented to ensure maximum road space remains available for vehicular movement on both sides throughout the construction period, minimizing inconvenience to daily commuters.
An agency was formally appointed last month to undertake the construction of the viaduct and the two stations along this stretch. Additionally, a flyover has been proposed near the Kothrud Depot area, which will be constructed alongside the Metro viaduct, creating an integrated transport solution. Over recent months, Maha Metro officials conducted extensive field visits alongside Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) representatives to finalize station locations and entry-exit points, ensuring optimal accessibility.
Current Progress and Future Plans
An official confirmed that groundwork has already begun in the Chandni Chowk area, encompassing essential activities such as soil testing and comprehensive surveys. "The existing viaduct near the Vanaz depot has already been extended by a few meters. Construction of the new viaduct towards Chandni Chowk will initiate from this precise point," the official stated. "We are also in the process of finalizing the design for a foot overbridge (FOB) at Chandni Chowk, which will provide commuters with safe and convenient access from the main highway. This FOB is an integral component of the overall project."
Community Response and Commuter Demands
Local residents have warmly welcomed this development, expressing relief and optimism. Samir Tambe, a resident of Bavdhan, highlighted the previous limitations, stating, "The absence of a Metro connection up to Chandni Chowk has been a major constraint for people in this area. I frequently travel to Vanaz station by bike or auto-rickshaw solely to access the Metro network."
Echoing similar sentiments, Kothrud resident Vinod Khaire remarked, "It never made logical sense to plan the Metro only up to Vanaz without incorporating the Vanaz-Chandni Chowk stretch in the initial phase. This extension is long overdue and will significantly enhance connectivity." Regular commuters have collectively urged authorities to expedite the completion of the Vanaz-Chandni Chowk stretch at the earliest possible timeframe, emphasizing its critical importance for daily travel.
This Metro extension project represents a transformative step in Pune's public transportation landscape, promising improved mobility and reduced traffic congestion for thousands of commuters in the western sectors of the city.
