India, July 25 -- Passenger services on Pune Metro Line 3 connecting Hinjewadi IT Park to Shivajinagar have moved a step closer to reality after the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) granted provisional authorisation to start operations on the Maan-RK Laxman Museum (Balewadi) section on July 23.

The approval covers the 12-station section between Maan and RK Laxman Museum. The approximately 13-km elevated double-track corridor can now operate metro trains at a maximum speed of 80 kmph.

The commissioner approved the stretch after completion of inspections, safety tests and compliance with mandatory requirements.

CMRS conducted a detailed inspection of the corridor from July 5 to July 8 in the presence of senior officials of Pune I...