New Metro Hub to House Expanded Pune District Court

Pune is set to see a significant enhancement in its judicial infrastructure with the addition of 15,000 square feet of space dedicated to the District and Sessions Court within the city’s new multi-modal metro hub. This development is part of a broader initiative to expand the court’s facilities, reflecting a thoughtful integration of public infrastructure with urban transit solutions.

The new space for the Pune District and Sessions Court is being integrated into the multi-modal metro hub currently under construction at the government warehouse premises in Shivajinagar. This strategic move not only provides much-needed expansion for the court but also aligns with Pune’s broader infrastructure goals. The Maharashtra government has sanctioned ₹15.04 crore for the construction, highlighting the commitment to enhancing legal facilities alongside public transit. The idea for expanding the District and Sessions Court was first discussed in a February 2015 meeting between the then Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court and the Chief Minister. The decision to repurpose the government warehouse space for this expansion was aimed at addressing the court’s increasing space requirements. The warehouse, originally under the jurisdiction of the Department of Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Protection, was later transferred to the Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation (Mahametro).

The incorporation of the court into the multi-modal hub will have several positive effects on Pune’s residents. By co-locating the court within a major transportation node, the new facility will offer greater accessibility to litigants, legal professionals, and the general public. This integration will streamline access to justice, making it more convenient for those attending court proceedings. The President of the Pune Bar Association, noted that a request will be made to the High Court to ensure that the new space is effectively utilised for both court functions and legal professionals. This development is expected to foster a more efficient legal environment and improve the overall functioning of the judiciary in Pune.

As Pune continues to expand and modernise its infrastructure, integrating judicial facilities into major public transport hubs represents a forward-thinking approach. This project not only enhances the functionality of the court system but also sets a precedent for future infrastructure developments in the city.