We have heard our traffic honchos talk about the Metro being one more traffic arm that gives Mumbai a seamless travel experience
Santacruz Metro Aqua Line 3 station exit on Western Express Highway. Pic/Ashish Raje
With people awaiting the opening of phase II of the Metro Aqua Line, the focus shifts to Metro stations. As this edit has highlighted repeatedly, it is time to look at our transport systems holistically. Like the approach and exit of our railway stations, the infrastructure around Metro stations is important, and accessibility to stations should be prioritised.
Let authorities collectively ensure a smooth experience for Metro users from getting to the station to exiting. This means ensuring that there is connectivity for commuters once they get out of Metro stations. At least buses or some well-regulated share-a-cab/rickshaw service will ensure that people reach the end point, or their destination, painlessly once they exit the Metro station. We have heard our traffic honchos talk about the Metro being one more traffic arm that gives Mumbai a seamless travel experience.
When one says seamless travel or commute that should include feeder routes/transport facilities to one’s destination. Mumbaikars cannot be left in the lurch once they emerge at the stations, running around for some transport that will take them to their final destination. The BEST is exploring various feeder options from different stations. While that will prove affordable for passengers, it will still be a while before people benefit because there is a paucity of buses, as has been reported several times.
Well-lit entrance and exit points and good roads around Metro stations are as important as making sure streets are adequately lit. When transport facilities are planned, so should their surroundings.
Mumbaikars are waiting for more ease in their commute as different phases and lines open up for the Metro. Let’s pay attention to every detail, from start to end, to make this truly a good life in a Metro.
