In a major boost for daily commuters in Pune’s Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park (RGIP), the popular Metrozip private bus service is set to resume operations within a month. This revival marks the return of a vital transport lifeline for thousands of IT professionals working in and around Hinjewadi.
A Collaborative Effort
The relaunch is being coordinated by the Hinjewadi Industries Association (HIA), the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), and the Regional Transport Office (RTO). HIA has signed an agreement with Cocorides (Routematic), a mobility service provider, to operate the service. Final permissions from the MIDC and RTO are expected by the end of August.
Pre-Covid Impact
Launched in 2014, Metrozip grew to operate 113 buses across multiple routes and shifts, ferrying around 6,000 commuters daily. Managed by operators such as Mahindra Logistics, Prasanna Purple, Supreme Transconcepts, and Ford Officeride, the service significantly reduced the number of private vehicles on the road, easing congestion in the IT hub.
Suspension During Pandemic
Operations were suspended in March 2020 due to the Covid-19 lockdown. With most companies adopting work-from-home or hybrid models, demand for shared transport plummeted. Now, with a sharp rise in in-office attendance, the demand for reliable group transport has returned—prompting HIA to act.
Authorities Respond
Colonel Shankar Salkar (Retd.), Managing Director of HIA, confirmed that the association has sent formal proposals to MIDC and RTO and is awaiting clearances. “Their support is essential to revive this much-needed service,” he said.
Pune’s Deputy RTO Sandesh Chavan expressed support for the initiative, provided all legal requirements are met. MIDC’s chief engineer Nitin Wankhade also welcomed the move, citing its potential to ease traffic woes.
Features That Set Metrozip Apart
Metrozip’s earlier success was attributed to its smart features like GPS-enabled tracking, online registration, digital payments, and reliable scheduling. It offered three variants—Metrozip Green (non-AC), Metrozip Delight (AC), and “Office Ride for Metrozip” in partnership with Ford Smart Mobility.
Looking Ahead
As Pune’s IT corridors gear up for normalcy, Metrozip’s return is timely and essential. Once fully operational, it promises to once again serve as a sustainable and efficient commuting option for the tech workforce.
