Pune’s metro commuters can soon expect an earlier start to their day as the Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation (MahaMetro) announces plans to commence Pune Metro services at 6 am instead of the current 7 am. This strategic move aims to cater to the needs of college students and long-distance travelers who rely on Pune’s railway stations.
The decision to advance the metro service timing follows the directive from Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who recently traveled via the Pune Metro from Ruby Hall Clinic to Vanaz and back. Pawar emphasized the importance of enhancing the metro network and urged MahaMetro officials to strengthen their efforts.
Addressing the demand of commuters to begin metro services earlier, Pawar highlighted the necessity of reaching destinations promptly. “The MahaMetro should take all steps to strengthen its network,” he stated during his metro ride.
MahaMetro’s Chairman and Managing Director, Sharvan Hardikar, confirmed that they are actively considering the proposal to initiate metro services at 6 am. The decision arises from the increasing demand voiced by commuters who rely on the Pune railway station for long-distance train travel and early morning college students.
“Commuters who have to catch long-distance trains from Pune railway station and students whose colleges start early morning are demanding that our service should start around 6 am,” explained Hardikar. He shared that in the past week, over 1.5 lakh commuters utilized the Pune Metro on both the Pimpri to Shivajinagar Civil Court and Vanaz to Ruby Hall Clinic routes during Saturday and Sunday. Moreover, the number of daily commuters on these routes has surged to approximately 38,000 in recent days and is projected to increase further.
To cater effectively to commuters’ needs, MahaMetro is meticulously analyzing the schedules of government and private offices, college timings, and long-distance train schedules from Pune and Shivajinagar stations. Hardikar assured that appropriate measures will be taken to ensure commuters can access the metro train at their desired timings, enabling them to reach their destinations punctually.
As MahaMetro strives to enhance the city’s metro connectivity, the adjustment of service timing underscores its commitment to provide efficient and convenient transportation options for Pune’s residents and visitors.
