Pune Metro Line 3: Trials Ongoing, Work in Final Phase; Partial Launch of Hinjawadi-Shivajinagar Line Expected Soon
PUNE – The skyline of Pune’s IT corridor is undergoing a rapid transformation as the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) nears the completion of the highly anticipated Pune Metro Line 3. Connecting the bustling Maan-Hinjawadi IT hub to the heart of the city at Shivajinagar, the 23-km elevated corridor is entering its final stretch of construction and systems integration.
In a recent update, PMRDA officials expressed confidence in the project’s progress, signaling that a “new era of speed, convenience, and modern connectivity” is imminent for the city’s commuters. While an official inauguration date has yet to be formally announced by the government, internal sources and recent media reports suggest that passenger services for Phase 1 could commence as early as June 15, 2026.
Phased Rollout: Hinjawadi to Get First Priority
To ensure a smooth transition and provide immediate relief to the thousands of IT professionals battling daily traffic snarls, the project will be launched in two distinct phases:
- Phase 1 (Targeted June 2026): This phase will operationalize the first 12 stations, primarily serving the Hinjawadi IT Park and surrounding areas. Key stations in this stretch include Megapolis Circle, Quadron Business Park, Infosys Phase 2, Wipro Technologies, and Balewadi Stadium.
- Phase 2 (Targeted October 2026): The remaining 11 stations, extending the line to the District Court at Shivajinagar, are expected to be ready by October. This extension will provide a vital interchange with MahaMetro’s Line 1 (PCMC to Swargate) and Line 2 (Vanaz to Ramwadi).
Technical Milestones and Safety Checks
The “Puneri Metro,” or the Pink Line, is India’s first metro project developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, executed by Pune IT City Metro Rail Limited (PITCMRL), a joint venture between the Tata Group and Siemens.
Recent ground-zero inspections led by high ranking officials of PMRDA have focused on clearing logistical bottlenecks and finalizing station amenities. Trial runs using the advanced Alstom Metropolis train sets have already been conducted between Maan Depot and University Chowk. These trains, featuring 750V DC third-rail traction, a first for Pune, are designed to carry approximately 1,000 passengers per three-coach set.
Pre-revenue trials have started with 60 trips by 10 trains across the 23.3 km corridor.
Check the video of trials on Pune Metro Line 3 below:
पुण्याचा प्रवास आता नव्या युगात प्रवेश करत आहे.
— PuneriMetro3 (@MetroPuneri) April 30, 2026
पुणेरी मेट्रो लाईन 3 चे ट्रायल रन सुरू असून शहरासाठी अधिक वेगवान
आणि सुलभ प्रवासाची तयारी सुरू आहे.#पुणेरीमेट्रोलाइन3 #आमचीपुणेलाइन3 #पुणेरीमेट्रोलाइन3 pic.twitter.com/QVXK8ZDvDB
A Transformation for the IT Hub
For years, the Hinjawadi-Shivajinagar route has been synonymous with heavy congestion and long travel times. The new metro line is expected to serve over 4 lakh commuters daily, drastically reducing travel time and offering an eco-friendly alternative to road transport.
“The work is in its final phase and is set to bring a major transformation,” stated a PMRDA official. “Travel from the IT hub to the heart of Pune will soon become faster, safer, and more seamless.”
Beyond connectivity, the project is also set to empower the local workforce in a unique way; the metro line is planned to feature an all-female team of train pilots, with nearly 100 women currently being trained for operations.
As finishing touches like escalators, entry-exit points, and signaling systems are completed, Punekars are advised to “stay tuned” for the final announcement that will officially open the doors to Pune’s newest transit lifeline.
