Building Pune: Expert agency to be roped in to oversee Phase 2 of Pune Metro

The state government on Monday approved the proposal to implement Phase 2 of Pune Metro which includes two routes – a 25.8 km stretch from Khadakwasla to Kharadi via Swargate and Hadapsar with 22 stations, at a cost of Rs 8,131 crore, and a 6 km stretch from Nal Stop to Manik Baug via Warje with six stations, at a cost of Rs 1,765 crore.

The actual implementation of the project, however, will only begin after getting clearance from the Centre.

Phase 1 of Pune Metro is complete and operational, with services from Vanaz to Ramwadi and PCMC to Swargate. While work has begun on an extension from Swargate to Katraj and PCMC to Nigdi, the extension from Vanaz to Chandni Chowk and Ramwadi to Wagholi is still awaiting the Centre’s approval.

Gadgil said the implementation of Phase 1 was a learning experience for Pune Metro and it has prepared a strategy to ensure that the extension project is implemented on time. “The problems and hurdles faced during the implementation of the first phase of the project will be overcome during the project extension. There was a consultant for Phase 1 but its tenure is ending now and the new agency will take over the responsibility,” Gadgil added.

The new agency will have to track the quality of work, review progress on all aspects ranging from design and procurement to construction, installation and testing, and check matters related to safety. It will plan and arrange for the training of Pune Metro personnel deployed for operation and maintenance of the project, assist Pune Metro in keeping the commissioner of railway safety informed about project design, and obtain intermediate approvals as required.

“The agency will provide proper interface coordination to ensure timely completion of all works on time and commissioning of the various sections as programmed,” Gadgil said.