The 23-km route was originally expected to be operational by March 2025 but has faced delays due to election-related restrictions and VIP movement. An extension of the deadline has been requested, and operations are now expected to begin by the end of September.

"Work on the Metro route from Hinjewadi to Shivajinagar is progressing well, but the launch was delayed due to the election period and other disruptions. We have now sought an extension to begin operations in September," said an officer from the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA).

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has urged officials to expedite the work, and Chief Minister Devendra Fadanavis will also review the project.

The PMRDA is simultaneously constructing a flyover along the Metro route on Ganeshkhind Road.

The Shivajinagar Metro route will provide direct and convenient access to the Hinjewadi Infotech Park, which employs thousands of residents.

Phase 1 of the Pune Metro includes two routes: from Vanaz to Ramwadi and from Pimpri Chinchwad to Swargate, covering 33 km. These routes were fully operational in 2024, with two stretches already open.

Additionally, the work on extending the Metro route from PCMC to Nigdi and Swargate to Katraj is underway, totalling 9 km. "The extension work will gather pace in 2025, and approval for other routes such as Ramwadi to Wagholi and Chandni Chowk to Vanaz could be granted in the New Year," said Hemant Sonawane, Executive Director of Pune Metro.