The Union Cabinet has approved three new Metro projects in India to enhance urban transportation, totaling an estimated cost of ₹30,765.5 crore. These projects include the Bengaluru Metro Phase-3, the Thane Integral Ring Metro, and an extension of the Pune Metro. Here’s a breakdown of what each project entails:
Bengaluru Metro Phase-3
- Expansion Details: This project will add 42.3 kilometers to the existing Metro network, with 14 new stations. A key feature is a 22.8 km underground section, designed to ease surface traffic congestion. The expansion will connect major areas, including Kempegowda International Airport and the IT corridor.
- Project Timeline: Set to be completed by 2025.
- Cost and Funding: Estimated at around ₹15,000 crore, with partial funding from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.
- Impact: The expansion is expected to improve public transportation significantly, reduce travel times, and alleviate traffic congestion in Bengaluru.
Thane Integral Ring Metro
- Project Features: This extension includes two lines—Line 1 from PCMC to Swargate and Line 2 from Bhosari to Swargate—covering about 32 kilometers. The project aims to reduce urban congestion with a mix of elevated and underground tracks.
- Timeline: Begun in 2019, the first section opened in 2022, with full completion expected by 2025.
- Technology and Sustainability: The project uses modern, energy-efficient trains and is designed to promote sustainable urban transport.
- Impact: The Thane Integral Ring Metro will improve travel time and connectivity in the region, making urban transport more efficient and reducing traffic congestion.
Pune Metro Extension
- Scope: Part of Mumbai’s metro network, this extension will span 30.5 kilometers and include 27 stations. It aims to ease congestion and integrate various modes of transport.
- Timeline: Construction began in 2016, with the first phase expected to be completed by 2023.
- Environmental Focus: The project incorporates eco-friendly measures, such as reduced land use, and aims to serve about 500,000 passengers daily.
- Impact: The Pune Metro extension is expected to cut travel time between Thane and Cuffe Parade and enhance urban connectivity, making public transport more reliable and accessible.
Environmental and Economic Impact
These Metro projects are expected to significantly boost daily passenger numbers, potentially reaching millions by 2045. They will improve urban mobility, stimulate economic growth, and reduce reliance on private vehicles, contributing to a cleaner environment. The Pune and Thane Metro projects will be managed by Maha Metro, with funding from the Government of India, the Government of Maharashtra, and international agencies. This strong commitment to modernizing urban infrastructure will help address the growing transportation needs of these cities.
