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The Pune railway division is actively working to develop Hadapsar railway station into a fully operational satellite terminal for long-distance trains, aiming to decongest Pune railway station. As train operations continue to rise, Hadapsar is being positioned as a significant alternative hub to reduce the heavy load on Pune Junction, which currently handles some of the highest train volumes in the region. Several train services have already begun shifting to Hadapsar, with more expected to follow in the coming months as infrastructure upgrades near completion.This transformation of Hadapsar railway station is part of the Indian Railways� ‘Amrit Bharat Station Scheme,� executed by the Gati-Shakti unit of the Pune division. The redevelopment project, estimated to cost Rs 1.35 billion, includes extending the Up and Down platforms to 600 metres to accommodate 24-coach trains, converting the existing Up goods line into a common Up and Down passenger coach line, and adding a new goods line on the Up side. Additional developments comprise the construction of a new station building, improvements to the circulating area, creation of parking facilities, and installation of water supply tank systems.Many works, such as the extension of platforms 1, 2, and 3 to full 24-coach capacity and the implementation of passenger amenities worth Rs 110.69 million, have already been completed. These amenities include modern waiting halls, enhanced seating, digital display systems, and clean drinking water facilities. According to a senior railway official who wished to remain anonymous, Hadapsar station is being developed to offer an airport-like experience, featuring lifts, escalators, a 12-metre-wide foot overbridge, a roof plaza, waiting rooms, and retiring rooms.To facilitate the widening of access roads to the station, old railway quarters and the Railway Police Force (RPF) chowky have been removed. However, despite ongoing development and improved facilities, passengers continue to face challenges related to connectivity and public transport. Unlike the centrally located Pune Junction, Hadapsar station lacks strong last-mile connectivity.Sneha Kulkarni, a daily commuter from Magarpatta, highlighted that while the move to start long-distance trains from Hadapsar is positive, the biggest issue remains poor connectivity. She explained that there are very few Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal (PMPML) buses or shared transport options directly to the station, and auto-rickshaw drivers often refuse short rides or demand extra charges. Additionally, the approach road becomes congested during peak hours. She pointed out that unless public transport and access improve, the station will remain inconvenient for many passengers, especially senior citizens and those carrying luggage.Authorities have acknowledged these challenges and are coordinating with local bodies to enhance public transport links to Hadapsar. Once fully operational, the station is expected to significantly ease the burden on Pune Junction and provide more convenient travel options for residents of eastern Pune, including areas such as Magarpatta, Amanora, and Hadapsar itself. The station’s redevelopment is anticipated to be complete by early 2026, marking a major advancement in Pune’s rail infrastructure and an essential part of the city’s broader urban transport strategy.News source: Hindustan Times