Pune: Pune Metro will extend its operating hours and increase train frequency during Ganeshotsav to manage the expected rise in passenger traffic to central Pune.
The special schedule will be in place from September 14 to 26. During peak hours, Metro trains will run every five minutes.
From September 14 to 16, Metro services will operate from 6 am to 11 pm. From September 17 to 24, trains will run until 2 am to help commuters attending late-night Ganeshotsav celebrations.
On Anant Chaturdashi, September 25, the Metro will provide extended services for 41 hours. Trains will run continuously from 6 am on September 25 until 11 pm on September 26. Regular timings will resume from September 27.
Metro Issues Advisory For Commuters
To manage crowds, Pune Metro has issued a route-wise advisory for passengers travelling towards the Peth areas. Passengers travelling towards the Peth areas on Line 1 have been advised to get off at Kasba Peth.
Commuters travelling on Line 2 from Vanaz can use Deccan Gymkhana station, while those travelling from Ramwadi can use PMC station.
Passengers travelling towards central Pune have been advised to avoid getting off at Mahatma Phule Mandai station and use it preferably while returning.
Mandai station will operate in one-way mode from September 14 to 26. Gate 3, near the Lokmanya Tilak statue, will be used for entry, while Gate 2 on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Road will be used for exit.
Metro authorities have also advised commuters to avoid changing lines at District Court station due to the expected rush. Depending on their route, passengers can use Kasba Peth, PMC or Chhatrapati Sambhaji Udyan stations for changing lines.
The special arrangements have been introduced to ensure smoother travel and better crowd management during the Ganeshotsav celebrations in Pune.