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Pune Metro, operating on the Vanaz Ruby Hall Clinic and PCMC headquarters-to-Civil Court routes, witnessed a decline in commuter footfall for the second consecutive month in November. The ridership plummeted from 36.7 lakh in October to 14.2 lakh, following 20 lakh commuters in September. Despite satisfactory Metro trip frequency, several factors such as limited parking spaces, inadequate last-mile connectivity, and feeder services contributed to commuter hesitancy.
The absence of seamless access to stations, especially due to parking constraints, emerged as a primary reason for the dwindling ridership. Metro authorities acknowledged the need for enhanced feeder services and better last-mile connectivity, emphasising improvements in shared rickshaw services and PMPML bus routes on smaller stretches.
A regular Metro commuter highlighted the novelty of the Metro facility as a driving force behind increased ridership in August and September. To sustain and boost ridership, commuters must have easy access to comprehensive services that facilitate station accessibility.
Maha Metro officials assured vigilance on ridership figures at pivotal stations and expressed their commitment to collaborate with Pune Municipal Corporation to provide parking amenities at various stations. Discussions with PMPML are also in the pipeline to refine feeder services.
In addressing concerns, authorities are considering the introduction of ample parking spaces near key stations such as Vanaz, Ruby Hall Clinic, and PCMC HQ, providing commuters with convenient options to park personal vehicles before boarding the Metro. Additionally, proposals for innovative schemes like rent-a-cycle, e-bike rentals, and autorickshaw systems at stations are being explored to enhance the overall commuting experience.
As Pune Metro adapts to commuter demands and works on addressing key challenges, the collaboration between authorities and a focus on comprehensive solutions are expected to pave the way for increased ridership in the coming months.
