Pune’s infrastructure landscape has been significantly enhanced with the successful implementation of a direct connection between the Pune Metro and the city’s railway station. With the inauguration of the second phase of the Pune Metro on August 1, commuters can now seamlessly transition between long-distance trains and metro services, marking a milestone achievement for the city.
The new Metro station, seamlessly integrated within the Pune railway station, is thoughtfully designed with internal foot over bridges (FOBs). These FOBs cater to passengers, particularly those with heavy luggage, offering ease of movement and a hassle-free transition between different modes of transportation. Moreover, a feeder bus service has been introduced, enhancing connectivity and accessibility for railway passengers.
This strategic development is poised to address the challenges faced by the daily influx of commuters at Pune station, which witnesses the departure of approximately 230 to 266 trains on a daily basis.
To make this integrated travel experience more accessible, Pune Metro tickets are priced at a maximum of ₹30, making it an affordable travel option for individuals across different segments of society. In addition to the Metro services, the introduced bus feeder service extends connectivity from Pune station to destinations along the Pimpri-Chinchwad Metro route and the Karve Road Metro route.
However, amidst the excitement of this transformative project, concerns have emerged about the potential for unchecked passenger inflow due to the creation of additional entrances near the Pune railway station. A vigilant passenger has highlighted the importance of addressing this issue, particularly in terms of preventing non-ticket holders from infiltrating the station premises.
The integration of metro and railway services is poised to significantly enhance the commuting experience in Pune. This development is expected to not only reduce walking distances for passengers but also facilitate seamless transfers between different modes of transportation. By bridging the gap between long-distance train services and city metro routes, this initiative marks a positive step towards creating a more interconnected and efficient transportation network for the residents of Pune.
