In a significant stride towards urban connectivity, Pune Metro achieved a historic milestone today as the trial run of the metro train successfully crossed beneath the Mutha River, connecting Civil Court to Swargate underground metro stations. This achievement marks a crucial phase in the completion of the Pune Metro Rail Project, bringing the city one step closer to a comprehensive and efficient metro network.
The Pune Metro Rail Project comprises two corridors, the North-South Corridor (Purple line) and the East-West Corridor (Aqua line), covering a total length of 33.2 kilometers and serving 30 stations. Notably, sections from PCMC to Phugewadi and Vanaz to Garware College were inaugurated on March 6, 2022, followed by additional sections from Phugewadi to Civil Court and Garware to Ruby Clinic on August 1, 2023.
The 6-kilometer underground stretch from Shivajinagar to Swargate includes five metro stations: Shivaji Nagar, Civil Court, Budhwar Peth, Mandai, and Swargate. Tunnelling work, initiated on September 28, 2020, was completed on June 4, 2022, utilizing tunnel boring machines (TBMs). Following the tunnelling phase, tracks, overhead electric wires (OHE), and signaling systems were installed to prepare for the trial run.
Today’s trial run covered a 3.34-kilometer section from Civil Court to Swargate stations, with the metro train traveling beneath the Mutha River. The route encompasses metro stations at Shivaji Nagar, Civil Court, Budhwar Peth, Mandai, and Swargate, showcasing the depth and engineering marvel of the underground metro network. The Civil Court metro station, situated approximately 33 meters below the surface, stands as one of the deepest metro stations in the country.
With 98% of the Pune Metro project completed, the remaining work is progressing swiftly, and the metro is anticipated to be commercially operational in the near future. The completion of the Civil Court to Swargate route will connect the central part of Pune city to the metro network, offering a rapid and secure urban transport option for citizens.
The underground metro stations, employing ‘cut and cover’ technology, presented unique challenges due to their proximity to historical monuments and densely populated areas. Despite these challenges, the project successfully utilized technologies like New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM) and completed the construction without incidents.
Shravan Hardikar, Managing Director of Mahametro, expressed, “Today’s test on the Civil Court underground station to Swargate station is a historic event for the cities of Pimpri Chinchwad and Pune. This underground route passes under the river Mutha. It will be possible to travel directly from Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation Station to Swargate Station in the coming months.”
As Pune Metro inches closer to full operational capacity, the city anticipates enhanced connectivity, reduced travel times, and a more sustainable urban transportation system.
