FCC

MahaMetro To Procure 300 Buses for Metro Connectivity

2025-05-22

In a significant move to improve last- and first-mile connectivity, MahaMetro is finalising the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the procurement of 300 feeder buses to serve Metro corridors in Nagpur. Officials confirmed that the report will be submitted to the Maharashtra government within a month for approval.

A senior MahaMetro official stated that the state government will first assess the financial viability and other essential aspects of the project. Depending on its decision, the proposal may then be forwarded to the Union government for final clearance.

This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance public transport integration, especially as Phase 2 of the Nagpur Metro progresses rapidly. The need for improved feeder services was highlighted during a high-level review meeting chaired by Maharashtra chief secretary Sujata Saunik in January, which emphasised multi-modal synergy between MahaMetro, Nagpur Improvement Trust (NIT), and Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC).

While the initial demand was for 500 feeder buses, the DPR now being prepared proposes 300 buses at an estimated cost of Rs 2.2 billion. “Ensuring last-mile connectivity is a priority. With the Metro network expanding, dependable feeder services are crucial,” the official added.

In parallel, the state is advancing first-mile connectivity and safer travel initiatives. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis recently announced that MahaMetro will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to introduce pink e-rickshaws across Nagpur Metro stations.

This initiative, led by the Women and Child Development Department, aims to enhance travel safety for working women. Under the scheme, 5,000 pink e-rickshaws will be distributed across eight districts, with 2,000 designated for Nagpur. Around 60 have already been allocated to MahaMetro in the first phase.