Cabinet approves Pune Metro Rail Project Phase-2: Kharadi–Khadakwasla (Line 4) & Nal Stop–Warje–Manik Baug (Line 4A) — UPSC Current Affairs | November 26, 2025
Cabinet approves Pune Metro Rail Project Phase-2: Kharadi–Khadakwasla (Line 4) & Nal Stop–Warje–Manik Baug (Line 4A)
The Union Cabinet approved Phase-2 of the Pune Metro Rail Project, including Line 4 and 4A, spanning 31.636 km with 28 stations, aiming to connect key areas and reduce traffic congestion. This project, implemented by Maha-Metro, is crucial for improving urban mobility and infrastructure in Pune, with projected ridership reaching 4.09 lakh by 2028.
Overview The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi , has approved Line 4 (Kharadi–Hadapsar–Swargate–Khadakwasla) and Line 4A (Nal Stop–Warje–Manik Baug) under Phase-2 of the Pune Metro Rail Project on November 26, 2025 . This approval marks a significant boost to Pune's public transport network, following the sanction of Line 2A (Vanaz–Chandani Chowk) and Line 2B (Ramwadi–Wagholi/Vitthalwadi). Key Objectives To enhance connectivity across key areas of Pune. To reduce traffic congestion on busy routes. To promote green and sustainable mobility. Key Developments Line 4 and 4A will cover a total distance of 31.636 km and include 28 elevated stations. These lines are designed to connect IT hubs, commercial zones, educational institutions, and residential clusters across East, South, and West Pune. Project Cost and Funding The estimated cost of the project is Rs. 9,857.85 crore . The project will be jointly funded by the Government of India , the Government of Maharashtra , and external bilateral/multilateral funding agencies. Timeline The project is expected to be completed within five years from the date of approval. Strategic Integration These lines are a vital part of Pune’s Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP) and will seamlessly integrate with operational and sanctioned corridors at Kharadi Bypass & Nal Stop (Line 2), and Swargate (Line 1). They will also provide an interchange at Hadapsar Railway Station and connect with future corridors towards Loni Kalbhor and Saswad Road, ensuring smooth multimodal connectivity across metro, rail, and bus networks. Connectivity Highlights Integration with existing and future metro lines. Interchange at Hadapsar Railway Station. Connection with future corridors towards Loni Kalbhor and Saswad Road. Impact and Projections Line 4 and 4A will connect diverse neighborhoods, traversing Solapur Road, Magarpatta Road, Sinhagad Road, Karve Road, and the Mumbai–Bengaluru Highway. This will ease congestion on Pune’s busiest routes while improving safety and promoting green, sustainable mobility. Ridership Projections The daily ridership on Line 4 and 4A combined is expected to be 4.09 lakh in 2028 , rising to nearly 7 lakh in 2038 , 9.63 lakh in 2048 , and over 11.7 lakh in 2058 . The Kharadi–Khadakwasla corridor will account for 3.23 lakh passengers in 2028 , growing to 9.33 lakh by 2058 , while the Nal Stop–Warje–Manik Baug spur line will rise from 85,555 to 2.41 lakh passengers over the same period. Implementation The project will be implemented by Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (Maha-Metro) , which will carry out all civil, electrical, mechanical, and systems works. Pre-construction activities such as topographical surveys and detailed design consultancy are already underway. Key Implementing Agency Maha-Metro : Responsible for all aspects of project implementation. Pre-construction activities are already in progress. UPSC Relevance This project is relevant to GS3: Infrastructure Development , focusing on urban transport and connectivity. It also touches upon GS3: Environment by promoting sustainable mobility and reducing traffic congestion. The project aligns with government policies aimed at improving urban infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life for citizens.