Pune, 31st August 2026: The much-awaited Shivajinagar-Hinjawadi Metro is once again being prepared for inauguration, with the first phase expected to open in the first week of September ahead of Ganeshotsav.
However, the proposed timeline comes after the inauguration was postponed for at least seven times, leaving commuters waiting for a confirmed launch date.
The repeated delays have increased uncertainty around the project, particularly among thousands of employees who depend on the western IT corridor for daily travel. Officials are now working to complete the remaining formalities and minor works so that services can begin as planned.
The 13-km stretch from Maan in Hinjawadi to the R.K. Laxman Museum in Balewadi has been completed. The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CMRS) approved 12 stations on July 23.
PMRDA Commissioner reviewed the Line-3 project on Friday (August 28) and assessed the remaining work and preparations for passenger operations.
Approval for the Civil Court station in Shivajinagar is being expedited. If the required permissions are received in time, authorities are considering starting direct services from Hinjawadi to Shivajinagar from the first day, rather than initially operating only up to Balewadi.
The proposed launch in the first week of September is being planned with Ganeshotsav in mind. An inauguration ceremony is expected at Balewadi, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi possibly attending virtually. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and both Deputy Chief Ministers are expected to attend in person.
The event may also include the inauguration of the underground Civil Court–Swargate Metro section and the foundation stone ceremony for the proposed Swargate–Katraj and Pimpri-Chinchwad–Nigdi elevated corridors.
PMRDA Chief Engineer Rinaz Pathan said, “The metro project has undergone inspections. Minor corrections related to road development and other works have been suggested. The metro will start running soon.”
With the inauguration already delayed seven times, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether the latest September deadline finally brings Metro Line-3 into passenger service.
