New Delhi, Aug 16 : The Union Cabinet on Friday approved the Swargate to Katraj Underground Line Extension of the existing PCMC-Swargate Metro Line of Pune Metro Phase-I project at an estimated cost of Rs 2,954.53 crore.

This new extension is known as the Line-l B extension and will span 5.46 km. It will include three underground stations, connecting key areas such as Market Yard, Bibwewadi, Balaji Nagar, and the Katraj suburbs.

The project, aimed at providing seamless connectivity in Pune, is set to be completed by February 2029, according to an official statement issued after the Cabinet meeting.

The estimated cost of the project is Rs 2,954.53 crore, with funding to be equally shared by the Centre and the Maharashtra government, along with contributions from bilateral agencies, the statement said.

This extension will integrate with the Swargate Multimodal Hub, which includes the Metro station, the MSRTC Bus Stand, and the PMPML Bus Stand, providing seamless connectivity for commuters within and outside Pune.

The extension will enhance connectivity between the southernmost part of Pune, the northern parts of Pune and the eastern and western regions via the District Court interchange station, providing seamless connectivity for commuting within and outside Pune.

The Swargate to Katraj Underground Line will significantly alleviate road traffic congestion and provide a safer, more comfortable travel experience by minimising the risk of accidents, pollution, and travel time, thus supporting sustainable urban development, an official said.

The new corridor will link various bus stops, railway stations, recreational centers like the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, Taljaihillock (tekdi), malls, etc., various residential areas, educational institutions, colleges, and major business hubs.

It will provide a faster and more economical transport option, benefiting thousands of daily commuters, especially students, small business owners and professionals traveling to offices and business centres.

The projected daily ridership on the Swargate-Katraj Line for the years 2027, 2037, 2047, and 2057 is estimated to be 95,000,1.58 lakh, 1.87 lakh, and 1.97 lakh passengers, respectively.

The project will be executed by Maha-Metro, which will oversee civil, electro-mechanical, and other associated facilities and works.

Maha-Metro has already begun pre-bid activities and is preparing tender documents, with contracts expected to be floated for bidding shortly, the statement added.

/IANS