Pune Metro Phase-2 Gains Momentum with Major Infrastructure Bids
The next phase of Metro development in Pune is poised to accelerate significantly as the Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (Maha Metro) has initiated the tendering process for two critical infrastructure projects. These include the construction of a Metro viaduct on the Ramwadi-Wagholi line and a six-lane elevated road directly beneath the viaduct structure.
Strategic Execution to Minimize Public Disruption
Both projects are slated to be executed concurrently to prevent potential chaos and construction-related lapses that could inconvenience residents and commuters. The Ramwadi-Wagholi Metro line represents a pivotal component of the Phase-2 expansion, spanning a total distance of 11.6 kilometers with 11 stations planned along the route.
The initial phase of this ambitious undertaking involves inviting bids for a 4.8-kilometer viaduct segment extending from Ramwadi to Tuljabhavani Chowk. This section will encompass four Metro stations: Vimannagar, Somnathnagar, Kharadi Bypass, and Tuljabhavani. Simultaneously, a similar length of elevated road—approximately 4.7 kilometers—will be constructed below the viaduct.
Critical Timeline and Project Specifications
According to Maha Metro's bid invitation documents, the combined work on the viaduct and elevated road is projected to be completed within 42 months (three and a half years) following commencement. The scope of work also includes constructing solid ramps to facilitate access to the elevated roadway. The six-lane elevated road is ultimately proposed to extend as far as Shikrapur.
This development holds particular significance for daily commuters traveling along Nagar Road, as the first-phase construction will focus on the stretch from Ramwadi to the beginning of the Wagholi area. The Ramwadi-Wagholi elevated line received official sanction in June 2025, with the total project cost estimated at ₹3,626.2 crore.
Official Insights and Commuter Perspectives
An anonymous Maha Metro official clarified that inviting bids represents merely the preliminary stage of the project. "It will take several more months before actual groundwork begins," the official noted, explaining that the proposal must navigate various technical formalities. Maha Metro plans to conduct a pre-bid meeting with interested agencies shortly, allowing approximately one month for online tender submissions with a deadline in early March.
Regular commuters on Nagar Road have expressed strong opinions regarding the project's timeline. Ajay Pawar, a frequent traveler on this route, emphasized, "The stretch from Ramwadi to Wagholi already experiences severe traffic congestion daily, especially during evening hours. Authorities must adhere strictly to deadlines to prevent additional hardships for commuters."
Some residents have advocated for executing the entire 11.6-kilometer Ramwadi-Wagholi line in a single phase rather than dividing it into multiple segments. Deepak Mohite, a Nagar Road resident, pointed out that the current tender excludes a portion proposed in Wagholi, raising concerns about potential delays.
Future Expansion Prospects
In related developments, Maha Metro officials have confirmed that feasibility studies are underway to potentially extend Metro services toward Lohegaon airport. This indicates broader transportation planning beyond the current Phase-2 projects, suggesting Pune's Metro network may continue expanding to serve additional key locations in the metropolitan region.
