Pune Metro’s recent survey reveals that the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) station tops the list of busiest metro stations in Pune, with an average daily footfall exceeding 18,000 passengers. Following closely is the Swargate station, which records about 15,000 daily commuters, while Ramwadi, Mandai, and Pune Railway Station each serve approximately 13,000 passengers every day.
The survey, conducted six months after full-scale operations began on Pune Metro’s twin corridors, highlights the growing popularity and reliance on metro services across the city. These five stations; Swargate, PCMC, Ramwadi, Mandai, and Pune Railway Station are key transit hubs contributing significantly to the metro’s increasing ridership.
Despite the strong usage, commuters have raised concerns about insufficient parking facilities and limited last-mile connectivity at these busy stations. For instance, Ramwadi station faces issues with footpath encroachments and illegal two-wheeler parking, obstructing pedestrian access despite ‘No Parking’ signage.
Maha Metro officials acknowledge these challenges and are working to expand parking infrastructure and improve connectivity. Parking facilities are already operational at major stations like Shivajinagar, Civil Court, PCMC, and Pune Railway Station. Additionally, Pune Municipal Corporation is collaborating to develop similar amenities at other stations.
To enhance last-mile connectivity, Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) has realigned bus routes serving Swargate, PCMC, and Ramwadi stations, aiming to provide smoother transfers between metro and bus services. However, many commuters feel these measures are still inadequate given the rising demand.
Since its launch in March 2022, Pune Metro has steadily increased ridership, with a daily average now around 1.6 lakh passengers citywide. The network’s expansion and improved service quality continue to make it a preferred mode of transport for Pune’s residents.
