Pune: The Union Government has allocated ₹929.07 crore in the 2025-26 budget for two crucial infrastructure projects in Pune: ₹699.13 crore for Pune Metro and ₹229.94 crore for the Mula-Mutha River Conservation Project. This financial boost is expected to accelerate metro expansion and sewage treatment efforts along the Mula-Mutha Rivers.

Pune Metro Expansion Gains Momentum

The ₹699.13 crore allocation for Pune Metro will aid in the ongoing and proposed expansion projects. Work is currently in progress on the Pimpri-Chinchwad to Nigdi extension, while the Swargate to Katraj route is awaiting final approval.

The Maharashtra government recently approved a ₹3,500 crore plan for the Swargate to Katraj metro expansion, which is expected to ease traffic congestion in the city.

Additionally, proposals for two more metro routes—Vanaz to Chandni Chowk and Ramwadi to Kharadi—have been submitted for approval. The substantial ₹699.13 crore allocation in the Union Budget ensures that Pune Metro’s expansion projects will continue at an accelerated pace.

Mula-Mutha River Conservation Project Moves Forward

The Mula-Mutha River Conservation Project, aimed at treating 100% of Pune’s sewage discharge, is being implemented through funding from Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The central government had earlier sanctioned ₹811 crore for this project, with ₹450 crore already spent and ₹250 crore received. The remaining ₹200 crore is expected by the end of February.

With the new ₹229.94 crore allocation in the budget, the project is set to progress rapidly. 11 sewage treatment plants (STPs) are being developed along the riverbanks, with 30% civil work already completed and 70% of the project involving machinery installation.