‘Metro Neo’ on the cards for Nashik Phata-Chakan route

PUNE: Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MahaMetro) is considering adopting the ‘Metro Neo’ model for the 16km Nashik Phata-Chakan stretch.
The corporation, which is already executing two Metro routes in Pune — from Vanaz to Ramwadi and between Pimpri and Swargate — has initiated steps, including a drone survey, to prepare a detailed project report for an extension from Nashik Phata to Chakan.

MahaMetro is favouring the ‘Neo’ as a more cost-effective option, compared to the traditional Metro rail, after considering several factors — such as passengers, existing public transport infrastructure and use of private vehicles.
“Various aspects are being studied as a part of the DPR exercise and our initial observations indicate that Metro Neo will be more feasible on this stretch,” a MahaMetro official said.
The Metro Neo model is being implemented on two routes in Nashik City at a cost of Rs2,100 crore. This mode of transport — a hybrid of Metro, tram, bus and BRTS — comprises two- or three-coach rakes that run on rubber tyres and are powered by overhead electrical cables.
The Nashik Phata-Chakan Metro extension will be undertaken in a future phase of the Pune Metro Rail project. In the ongoing phase, the elevated stretch between Vanaz and Ramwadi and the elevated-underground stretch from Pimpri to Swargate would be made operational.
The official said Metro Neo would be more cost-effective, considering probable passenger footfall, existing road infrastructure and other, upcoming projects. “A ring road has already been planned for this stretch. It will be more feasible to execute both Metro Neo and the ring road without making too many changes to the alignment,” the official said.