Pune Metro is rapidly expanding — but does it run 24 hours? Explore timings, routes, and plans in this full guide by PuneriPages.in.
By Prashant for PuneriPages.in
The Pune Metro, a transformative addition to the city’s urban infrastructure, has revolutionized daily commuting for thousands of residents. However, one of the most frequently asked questions by travelers and residents alike is: “Is the metro available 24 hours in Pune?” In this comprehensive guide, we provide detailed insights into Pune Metro timings, route operations, last train schedules, and future expansion plans, helping you plan your commute efficiently.
Table of Contents
Pune Metro: Transforming Urban Travel
The Pune Metro Rail Project, operated by Maha Metro (Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited), is designed to ease the city’s growing traffic congestion and provide an eco-friendly mode of public transport.
Launched in 2022, the metro currently operates on two major corridors — the Purple Line and the Aqua Line, connecting key residential, commercial, and educational zones of the city.
- Purple Line: Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) to Swargate
- Aqua Line: Vanaz to Ramwadi
The Pune Metro ensures fast, comfortable, and affordable travel, but contrary to common assumptions, it does not operate 24 hours a day.
Is Pune Metro Available 24 Hours?
No, the Pune Metro is not available 24 hours. The trains currently operate during fixed hours, primarily catering to office commuters, students, and local travelers.
According to the official Maha Metro schedule, Pune Metro operates between:
🕕 Start Time: 6:00 AM
🕛 Last Train Departure: Around 10:00 PM (depending on the route and station)
This means that Pune Metro services are not available during midnight or late-night hours, unlike metros in some global cities such as New York or London. The last train’s timing may vary slightly between the Purple and Aqua lines.
Detailed Pune Metro Timings (2025 Update)
As of 2025, the standard operating hours for Pune Metro are as follows:
| Route | First Train | Last Train | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCMC – Swargate (Purple Line) | 6:00 AM | 10:00 PM | Every 5–7 minutes during peak hours |
| Vanaz – Ramwadi (Aqua Line) | 6:05 AM | 10:00 PM | Every 7–10 minutes during off-peak hours |
During public holidays or special events, the metro authorities may extend timings temporarily, but there is no regular 24-hour service at present.
Why Pune Metro Isn’t 24 Hours Yet
The decision to not operate Pune Metro round-the-clock stems from multiple logistical and operational factors:
- Low Nighttime Ridership: Passenger demand between midnight and early morning remains significantly low, making it economically unfeasible.
- Maintenance Requirements: Metro systems require nighttime maintenance for track, signal, and electrical systems to ensure safety and reliability.
- Energy Efficiency: Continuous operations would increase electricity consumption and maintenance costs without proportionate ridership benefits.
- Safety & Staffing Constraints: Running services overnight demands extended shifts for security, cleaning, and operations staff.
However, as Pune continues to grow into a major IT and industrial hub, authorities are exploring possible extended-night operations in the future, especially for weekends or major city events.
Pune Metro Route Map & Coverage
The Pune Metro network covers crucial parts of the city, improving accessibility across regions.
- Purple Line (PCMC to Swargate): Passes through Nashik Phata, Shivajinagar, Civil Court, and Budhwar Peth.
- Aqua Line (Vanaz to Ramwadi): Connects Kothrud, Deccan Gymkhana, Yerawada, and Nagar Road.
Both lines intersect at Civil Court Interchange Station, which serves as a central hub for passengers switching between corridors.
Future plans include the Line 3 (Hinjewadi to Shivajinagar) route under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, which will connect IT hubs, residential areas, and universities, expanding metro access across Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad.
Pune Metro Ticket Prices and Smart Card System
To maintain affordability, the Pune Metro has implemented a flexible fare system based on distance traveled:
| Distance (km) | Fare (INR) |
|---|---|
| 0 – 2 km | ₹10 |
| 2 – 4 km | ₹15 |
| 4 – 10 km | ₹20–₹25 |
| 10+ km | ₹30–₹35 |
Passengers can buy tickets via ticket counters, vending machines, or the Pune Metro mobile app.
Additionally, the Maha Card (Smart Card) allows commuters to tap and go, saving time during peak hours. Online recharge facilities make daily commuting hassle-free and efficient.
Future Expansion and 24-Hour Operation Possibilities
While the Pune Metro is not yet available 24 hours, Maha Metro’s future plans indicate that extended service hours could be introduced as ridership increases. The following developments are being considered:
- Night Metro Service Pilot: Trial runs during weekends or festivals to evaluate nighttime passenger flow.
- Line 3 Integration: The Hinjewadi–Shivajinagar corridor, once operational, could adopt a slightly extended schedule to accommodate IT professionals working night shifts.
- Interconnectivity with PMPML and Indian Railways: Seamless connectivity with Pune railway station and PMPML buses can promote round-the-clock travel convenience.
- Safety Infrastructure Upgrades: Installation of advanced surveillance and lighting systems to support safe late-night operations.
With increasing demand from Pune’s growing working population, 24-hour metro service may eventually become a reality — but it will likely be introduced in phases after analyzing passenger patterns and operational feasibility.
Alternative Late-Night Transport Options in Pune
Even though the metro doesn’t run 24 hours, Pune offers multiple alternatives for nighttime commuters:
- Ola and Uber: Available across most city areas, including Hinjewadi, Kothrud, Viman Nagar, and Swargate.
- Auto Rickshaws: 24-hour availability, though fares may be higher at night.
- PMPML Night Buses: Limited routes operate till midnight.
- Private Cabs & Shuttle Services: IT parks and industrial zones often run employee shuttle buses post 10 PM.
These options ensure you’re never stranded, even when the metro isn’t operational.
Traveler Tips for Using Pune Metro
- Plan Your Journey: Always check the latest metro timetable before traveling.
- Use Maha Metro App: Get real-time updates on train timings and ticket availability.
- Avoid Last-Minute Rush: Arrive 10 minutes before the last scheduled train.
- Keep Maha Card Recharged: Helps you skip queues during busy hours.
- Follow Station Rules: Metro authorities emphasize maintaining cleanliness, discipline, and safety.
Pune Metro – A Step Toward a 24-Hour City
While the Pune Metro is not yet a 24-hour service, it remains one of the most reliable, affordable, and eco-friendly transportation systems in Maharashtra. As Pune evolves into a smart city, the potential for extended or 24-hour metro operations is high.
For now, commuters can rely on 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM metro services, offering speed, convenience, and safety for daily travel. With upcoming routes, increased ridership, and technological upgrades, Pune Metro is well on its path to becoming the lifeline of the city — perhaps soon, even round-the-clock.
About The Author
