**PMRDA Sanctions ₹628 Crore Project to Upgrade 50-Km Road Along Hinjawadi–Shivajinagar Metro Line 3**

The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has approved a ₹628 crore project to construct and upgrade a 50-kilometre road running parallel to the Hinjawadi–Shivajinagar Metro Line 3, officials announced on Friday.

This project aims to transform the existing four-lane road into a six-lane concrete carriageway. The development will include the addition of service roads, cycle tracks, footpaths, bus bays, parking lanes, and ducts for utility lines, enhancing overall connectivity and commuter convenience.

According to PMRDA officials, a tender for the project was floated on September 25. Approximately 25 kilometres of the roadway will be built on each side of the elevated metro corridor, effectively serving as a parallel feeder route to the metro line.

The sanctioned budget covers multiple aspects, including land acquisition, landscaping, electrification, shifting of utilities, and the construction of a central median. To ensure quality and timely execution, a consultant will be appointed to conduct detailed surveys, prepare designs, monitor progress, and oversee post-construction activities. The final project cost is expected to be revised once the consultant submits its detailed findings.

Authorities believe that the new parallel road will significantly improve last-mile connectivity and will help manage utility corridors not addressed by the metro network.

### Concerns Raised by Civic Activists and Commuters

Despite the project’s potential benefits, it has faced criticism from civic activists and daily commuters. Critics argue that expanding road infrastructure could encourage increased private vehicle usage instead of alleviating traffic congestion. Some residents have questioned the necessity of such a significant investment, especially given that the metro system itself was introduced to ease traffic woes in the region.

The Hinjawadi and Baner areas, covered by this metro line, are plagued by severe traffic congestion daily. These localities house thousands of IT employees, and weekday traffic remains a persistent issue.

### Next Steps

Notwithstanding residents’ concerns, PMRDA has confirmed that land acquisition will commence where necessary. The project is expected to proceed further once the consultant finalizes the design and provides a comprehensive cost estimate.

This ambitious infrastructure upgrade is poised to enhance Pune’s urban transport landscape, provided it is implemented with consideration for sustainable traffic management and community needs.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/pune/pune-pmrda-to-spend-628-crore-on-50-km-road-parallel-to-hinjawadi-shivajinagar-metro-line