PUNE, October 11, 2023 –
The recent extension of Pune Metro's corridor, now spanning 25 Kilometers to connect key locations in the city, initially sparked enthusiasm among Punekars. Over time, the response has reduced to some extent, mainly because passengers still require alternate ways of transport to reach their ultimate destinations from metro stations, and partly due to the less-than-ideal positioning of a few metro stations. Nevertheless, some commuters continue to choose the metro as a convenient and quicker commute option, given the ongoing traffic congestion issues in Pune.
To understand the commuter's viewpoint, I boarded a metro from Deccan to Ruby Hall, covering 4 Km in just 7-8 minutes providing insights about the situation.
From ticket counters to self-operated digital ticket vending machines, Pune Metro has made purchasing tickets easy for both regular commuters and newcomers. The strategic placement of important notice boards, direction sign boards, and readily accessible route information contribute to the hassle-free commute.
The number of screens displaying the next trains and their timings keeps passengers well informed. Metro stations are spacious and equipped with elevators for passenger comfort. Although there are no platform screen doors present, they are used to separate platforms from train tracks to avoid accidental falls. However, there are security guards present at each platform to ensure that travelers stay safe behind the designated yellow line.
Among the people I talked to, A college student happily stated," I occasionally take the metro to get to college; the metro is a clean and comfortable travel option compared to the bus, but I have to switch to a bus as there is no metro station close to my home."
Another regular commuter shared, "The Metro is a convenient option for my daily Deccan to Pune station journey after work. No traffic worries, a quick 10-minute journey, and far less exertion compared to buses. But we need more stations, especially in traffic-prone areas like Hadapsar and Sinhagad Road!"
In contrast, a first-time traveler, a grandmother, shared with a smile, "My granddaughter brought me for my first Metro ride; it was a delightful experience for both of us."
It has been observed that commuters to and from Pune Station are notably higher in number compared to other metro stations. This suggests that Pune Station could potentially serve as the central hub of the metro network, connecting it to various other places.
As Pune's infrastructure continues to evolve, the Metro system stands as a testament to progress, offering the assurance of an even better and more integrated transportation network for the vibrant residents of this city.
In conclusion, the Pune Metro, with its recent expansion, holds the promise of offering residents a break from traffic congestion while providing a comfortable mode of transportation. Yet, the eagerly awaited addition of more stations with convenient access for all residents remains a significant challenge in the path toward achieving a seamless and efficient metro network.
With potential and promise, the Pune Metro journey continues, presenting both opportunities and challenges for the future.
Shripad Sanjay Kulkarni
