Mon Oct 07 01:32:53 UTC 2024: ## Pune Metro Speeds Up Infrastructure Projects, Floats Tenders for Underground and Elevated Lines

**Pune, India -** In a bid to accelerate its infrastructure development, the Pune Metro has announced the release of tenders for the design and construction of both underground and elevated metro lines. The move comes ahead of the upcoming election code of conduct, highlighting the government’s commitment to fast-tracking these crucial projects.

The first tender covers the construction of underground stations and connecting tunnels between Swargate and Katraj, a vital section of the north-south corridor aimed at improving connectivity in the city’s southern region. This segment will include stations at key locations like Market Yard, Padmavati, and Katraj, effectively addressing traffic congestion and bolstering public transportation between these areas.

Simultaneously, the Pune Metro has also released a tender for the construction of four elevated stations along the same corridor. These stations, located at Chinchwad, Akurdi, Nigdi, and Bhakti Shakti, will be built excluding the viaduct, pier arms, and associated electrical and mechanical work. However, plumbing works for the elevated stations are included in the tender.

“We are determined to complete all necessary steps before the election code of conduct comes into effect,” said a senior Pune Metro official. “The tenders for the Swargate to Katraj underground stretch will be submitted by December 3 and opened the following day. Work on both extensions is expected to begin by December.”

The official also emphasized that the Pune Metro is actively seeking land from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) for the respective sections of the project.

The move follows the recent approval from the union cabinet for the Swargate to Katraj underground extension of the existing PCMC to Swargate metro line, part of the Pune Metro phase 1. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for this project virtually on September 29.

**Escalator Incident Raises Concerns**

While the Pune Metro focuses on expansion, a recent incident at the Swargate metro station has raised concerns about passenger safety. An elderly man was seriously injured after falling on an escalator, highlighting the need for enhanced safety measures and vigilance.

The incident comes after a similar accident in July, where a passenger died after falling on an escalator at the District Court metro station. These incidents highlight the need for the Pune Metro to prioritize passenger safety and ensure that escalators are adequately maintained and monitored.

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