Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has taken a significant step forward in the Pimpri to Nigdi metro extension project with the approval of a key funding share.

In a special standing committee meeting held on October 14, PCMC Administrator Shekhar Singh approved the allocation of ₹49 crore to Maha Metro, advancing the implementation of the long-awaited 4.41 km metro corridor.

The funds will contribute to the execution of Pune Metro Phase 1, Corridor-1, which is being extended from PCMC to Nigdi.

The meeting, held at the Madhukarrao Pawale Hall within the main administrative building, was attended by additional commissioners Pradeep Jambhale Patil, Vijaykumar Khorate, Chandrakant Indalkar, along with relevant department heads and officials.

Various other issues, such as the cleaning and maintenance of municipal schools and public sanitation facilities, were also addressed and approved during the session.

The Government of India has granted approval and funding for this metro extension project, which aims to enhance the connectivity in the PCMC region.

Currently, the geo-technical investigation work for the metro line is nearing completion. In addition, foundation work is underway at two major sites: Lokshahir Annabhau Sathe Bus Terminal and Khandoba Mal Chowk.

Maha Metro had previously requested ₹86.61 crore for the 2023-24 financial year, and PCMC has made a provision of ₹50 crore in its budget for 2024-25.

With the release of ₹49 crore from PCMC’s available funds, the metro extension project has gained crucial momentum. Other topics approved in the special meeting included the mechanized cleaning of PCMC primary school buildings and sanitation facilities, daily upkeep of crematoriums, and labor provision for these services.

Furthermore, plans related to the voter awareness program for the upcoming 2024 Assembly Elections (SWEEP) were also given the green light by Commissioner Singh.