Pune Metro Extension: EIB Funding Boosts Urban Rail Mobility in India

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Introduction

The European Investment Bank (EIB) is proposing a EUR 235 million financing package for the extension of Pune Metro Corridor 1, with the total project cost estimated at EUR 475 million. The project encompasses the construction of 10.5 km of new metro sections and nine stations.

Main Content

Project Scope and Details

The project includes extensions to the north, on the PCMC – Nigdi route, and to the south, on the Swargate – Katraj route. The northern extension between PCMC (Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation) and Nigdi involves the construction of four stations, while the southern extension from Swargate to Katraj will include three stations. The initial 7 km section of Pune Metro Corridor 1, known as the Purple Line, between PCMC and Phugewadi, was inaugurated in March 2022.

Timeline and Existing Infrastructure

The second 7 km extension, linking Phugewadi and District Court, was launched in August 2023. The final section, between District Court and Swargate, opened last year, completing the full 16.5 km line.

Impact on Urban Mobility

The extensions to Pune Metro Corridor 1 are expected to improve urban mobility in the Pune metropolitan region. The northern extension to Nigdi will enhance connectivity for residents of the Pimpri-Chinchwad area, while the southern extension to Katraj will provide a direct link for commuters traveling to central business districts.

Integration and Features

The extended Pune Metro Corridor 1 will integrate with other public transport modes, including buses and regional rail networks. The project also incorporates modern amenities at stations, enhanced safety features, and energy-efficient metro operations.

EIB Financing

In October, the EIB provided EUR 289.5 million in financing for the Nagpur and Pune metro networks. This included a EUR 240 million loan for the extension of the Nagpur metro and EUR 49.5 million for the Pune metro. This additional financing in Pune complements the EIB’s previous EUR 600 million investment, covering the construction of two metro lines totaling 33.2 km, 30 stations, and 102 modern metro cars.

Conclusion

The European Investment Bank is financing the extension of Pune Metro Corridor 1, with a proposed EUR 235 million investment, part of a total project cost of EUR 475 million. The project encompasses 10.5 km of new metro sections with nine stations and will integrate with other public transport modes. The EIB previously invested EUR 600 million in the Pune metro system.

Company Summary

European Investment Bank (EIB): The EIB is providing financing for the extension of Pune Metro Corridor 1.

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