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www.metrorailnews.in METRO RAIL NEWS -AUGUST - 2025 27%u2022Out of the 5.5 MWp, 1.5 MWp solar PV capacity has been installed at Mihan & Hingna depots and is expected to be commissioned within a few weeks. For NMRP, Cumulative renewable energy generation at the end of FY 2024-25 stands at 177.56 Lakh units and corresponding savings of Rs. 1130.81 lakhs achieved in the operational cost.%u2022Till FY 2024-25, the solar energy generation of 177.56 Lakh units led to sa aving in CO2 emission of 16335 Tonnes. It is planned to meet 50% of the total energy requirements of Maha Metro through solar energy.%u2022Maha Metro also features bio-digesters that enable 100% wastewater recycling, ensuring zero discharge to the municipal sewerage system from all stations.%u2022The recycled water is stored separately and reused for flushing, horticulture, and other purposes through a %u2018double plumbing%u2019 system integrated into the station and building infrastructure.%u2022Rainwater harvesting provisions are made at all station rooftops, viaducts, and depot building rooftops, allowing for 100% rainwater harvesting.%u2022The collected water is directed into the ground, facilitating groundwater recharge. This system is fully sustainable, completely eco-friendly, and contributes significantly to total water conservation.%u2022As an ISO 14001-certified organization, NMRP adheres to the framework and principles established under this standard to ensure responsible environmental management and continuous improvement in environmental performance.%u2022Pune Metro has successfully transplants a total of 2,267 large trees using the Arboriculture-based Root Ball Technique and a total of 17,986 new trees were planted to make the city greener.%u2022Pune Metro stations have been awarded IGBC Platinum Ratings%u2014the highest rating given by the Indian Green Building Council%u2014underscoring their dedication to environmentally conscious infrastructure. 22 stations of Nagpur Metro and 7 Pune Metro stations have been awarded the IGBC Platinum RatingHow is the Pune Metro project contributing to the overall urban development and economic growth of Pune, particularly in areas along the metro corridors?%u2022As per the Government of Maharashtra%u2019s policy, the Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) zone limit in Pune has been extended to 500 metres along metro stations.%u2022Areas such as Shivaji Nagar and PCMC have already seen a surge in new commercial and residential projects, following the launch of metro stations. The government%u2019s provision of higher Floor Space Index (FSI) in TOD zones has further incentivized developers, paving the way for more compact, accessible, and transit-friendly neighbourhoods.%u2022The concept of Transit Oriented Development was approved for the Nagpur Metro Rail Project at the DPR Stage. Transit Oriented Development (TOD) is densifying the population along the Metro Rail Corridor by way of providing additional FSI for Development. The additional FSI has provided at a Premium of up to 40% of the Annual Schedule of Rates of the Land (Circle Rate). The Premium so collected shall be will be distributed between Maha Metro and other ULBs (NIT/NMC/MADC) in the following manner %u2013- 50% of the Premium so collected shall be reserved for Maha Metro as a part of Non-Fare box revenue. This Premium accrued will help Maha-Metro in Operations and Maintenance and for repayment of Loans availed from various funding agencies.- 50% of the Premium so collected by Planning Authorities/ ULB%u2019s, shall be used for up-gradation of existing infrastructure within the TOD Corridor.%u2022Maha-Metro Nagpur at suitable locations are planning Joint Development/Commercial Development Projects with Private Developers and City Authorities.%u2022Additionally, Maha-Metro has also planned for the development of multi-model hubs near mega commercial projects so as to provide first and last mile connectivity in a better way. For example, Maha-Metro has planned for a multi-model hub near Kamptee Bus Terminal, and further discussions are underway for the development of a commercial project on Kamptee Bus Station Land in Nagpur.What is your message to the citizens of Pune and the readers of Metro Rail News?Pune Metro is more than just a mode of transport%u2014it is a step towards building a cleaner, smarter, and more connected city. We are committed to providing safe, affordable, and sustainable mobility solutions while constantly innovating through digital ticketing, first and last-mile connectivity, and eco-friendly infrastructure. With growing ridership, extensive planning for future corridors, and initiatives like tree transplantation, rainwater harvesting, solar energy, and zerodischarge wastewater systems, we are laying the foundation for a green and inclusive urban future.We urge citizens to adopt public transport, reduce dependence on personal vehicles, and become active partners in transforming Pune into a model transit-oriented city. Together, let us ride towards progress%u2014efficiently, responsibly, and sustainably.EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW