New Delhi: India has invested over $26 billion in metro rail projects across nearly two dozen cities, aiming to ease congestion and improve urban mobility. Yet many systems report far lower ridership than projected, raising concerns about affordability, planning, and access.
In Mumbai, the Aqua Line, a 33.5 km underground corridor linking key business and residential hubs, operates far below its expected daily ridership of 1.5 million. Estimates place actual usage at about one tenth of this figure. Officials and experts point to high fares as a key barrier. A single trip costs between Rs 10 and Rs 70, while suburban rail passes remain far cheaper.
Studies show a wider trend. A 2023 report found most metro systems achieve only 25 to 35 percent of projected ridership. In some cities, usage drops to as low as 2 percent. Even in growing networks like Pune and Nagpur, ridership remains between 20 and 50 percent of estimates.
Experts cite inflated demand projections during planning stages. Train frequency and coach capacity often fall short of initial promises. In some cities, trains run at intervals of up to 25 minutes on newer lines.
Last mile connectivity remains a major issue. Limited feeder buses, long transfer times, and poor pedestrian access reduce convenience. Safety concerns, especially for women, further discourage use.
Despite these challenges, experts expect gradual growth as traffic congestion worsens. They stress the need for lower fares, better integration with buses, and improved station access to increase usage.
Reported by the BBC
