The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) is expected to postpone the launch of the much-anticipated Hinjewadi–Shivajinagar Metro line, originally slated to become operational this April. Despite being granted an extension until September, the 24-kilometre elevated route remains unfinished, and officials now say public operations may commence only next year.

Developed by Pune IT City Metro Rail Ltd (PITCMRL) for PMRDA, the corridor is set to feature 23 stations and will directly link the city with the Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park in Hinjewadi — a daily destination for thousands of commuters.

Following the successful completion of the Vanaz–Ramwadi and Pimpri Chinchwad–Swargate routes by Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (Maha-Metro), attention turned to this third corridor. According to PMRDA officials, approximately 85% of the work has been completed, and basic infrastructure for testing should be ready by December.

Civic activist Vivek Velankar criticised the delay, arguing that commuters should not be made to suffer due to administrative inefficiencies. Last year, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar had inspected the project and urged PMRDA to expedite work — especially the stretch between Shivajinagar and Aundh along Ganeshkhind Road.

Once operational, the Hinjewadi–Shivajinagar Metro is expected to offer a significant alternative to private transport, easing traffic congestion and reducing pollution across one of Pune’s busiest commuter routes.