Six deadlines, zero trains: Inside the delays plaguing Pune's most-awaited metro corridor

Commuters waiting for relief from Pune’s daily traffic congestion face yet another setback as the Hinjewadi–Shivajinagar Metro misses its sixth deadline. The Maan–Balewadi stretch, earlier slated to open by June-end, is now unlikely to be operational before July. Repeated postponements have added to frustration among office-goers, especially those commuting to the IT hub. (Photo credit: PMRDA)

The 23km elevated Hinjewadi–Shivajinagar Metro corridor has failed to meet multiple completion timelines over the past year. Even the phased rollout plan has slipped, with the first phase now delayed beyond June. For thousands of daily commuters, the wait continues with no firm date in sight. (Photo credit: PMRDA)

In March, the state government announced that the Metro corridor would open in two phases — May and July. While the first phase was later pushed to June-end, that deadline too has quietly passed. Officials now indicate that commercial operations may only begin after a formal inauguration in July. (Photo credit: PMRDA)

Rising fuel prices and worsening traffic have made daily travel increasingly expensive and exhausting for Pune commuters. Many had pinned hopes on the Metro easing congestion along the Hinjewadi route. With delays stretching on, private vehicles and autorickshaws remain the only options for most. (Photo credit: PMRDA)

For professionals working in Hinjewadi, the repeated postponement feels like déjà vu. Several commuters say deadlines keep shifting with little clarity on actual operations. The prolonged wait has deepened scepticism over project timelines and execution. (Photo credit: PMRDA)

Officials indicate that even after readiness, Metro services will begin only after a formal inauguration. Commuters have questioned the need for ceremonial delays amid fuel shortages and traffic chaos. Many believe operations should start immediately once safety approvals are secured. (Photo credit: PMRDA)

The original plan to open the entire corridor together has been replaced with a phased approach. The first phase includes 12 stations, with the remaining 11 to follow later. Commuters argue that the staggered rollout reduces the immediate impact the Metro could have had on traffic relief. (Photo credit: PMRDA)

Authorities say the Hinjewadi–Shivajinagar Metro Line 3 is over 95% complete. However, mandatory safety approvals are still pending before passenger services can begin. The Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety is expected to inspect the corridor in June. (Photo credit: PMRDA)

While safety inspection is scheduled, officials admit that final approval could extend beyond June. Any delay in certification may push the launch further into July or later. A final decision will be taken only after the inspection process concludes. (Photo credit: PMRDA)

Not all Metro stations along the corridor are fully ready, authorities have acknowledged. Work remains pending at a few locations, with completion expected over the next three to four months. Until then, full-scale operations across the entire corridor will remain out of reach. (Photo credit: PMRDA)