Metro 1 to start Andheri-Ghatkopar shuttle to meet high peak-hr demand

Mumbai: In a bid to enhance service frequency and accommodate more commuters during peak hours, Mumbai Metro One Pvt Ltd (MMOPL) is slated to introduce a shuttle service between Andheri and Ghatkopar. The move follows commuter feedback highlighting the need for improved services on the busy Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar corridor.MMOPL conducted successful trial runs for the shuttle service on March 6, during which alternate trains operated between Versova and Andheri while others ran the full distance to Ghatkopar. "We tested a new train schedule to boost frequency during peak hours on the Andheri-Ghatkopar stretch. The results were encouraging, and we are closely analysing the impact to optimise future operations," said an MMOPL official.Out of the 60,000 commuters who take Metro 1 during peak hours, only around 7,500 travel to stations such as Azad Nagar, D N Nagar and Versova whereas 87.5% (52,500) travel between Andheri and Ghatkopar.With the proposed shuttle service, Metro One expects to accommodate an additional 5,000 passengers during peak hours. The frequency of trains on this section will improve, reducing the headway from 220 seconds to 205 seconds—an over 8% increase in capacity.Regular Metro commuters have welcomed the move, saying the Andheri-Ghatkopar stretch often experiences heavy footfall. "During rush hours, it's tough to get into the train. If this shuttle service increases frequency, it will be a huge relief," said Ajay Shah, a daily commuter from Ghatkopar.Currently, Metro One operates around 430 trips on weekdays, with the first trains departing at 5:30am from both Versova and Ghatkopar. The last services run at 11:25pm from Versova and 11:50pm from Ghatkopar. Launched in June 2014, Mumbai Metro One provides a much-needed alternative to the heavily congested Andheri-Kurla Road, which houses several corporate offices and hotels. "This stretch is one of the busiest in Mumbai. Any improvement in Metro services directly benefits thousands of office-goers," said transport expert Rishi Verma.MMOPL is expected to finalise the implementation plan for the shuttle service soon, providing a smoother and faster commute for Mumbaikars. Metro One is the only corridor executed through a public-private partnership. Mumbai: In a bid to enhance service frequency and accommodate more commuters during peak hours, Mumbai Metro One Pvt Ltd (MMOPL) is slated to introduce a shuttle service between Andheri and Ghatkopar. The move follows commuter feedback highlighting the need for improved services on the busy Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar corridor.MMOPL conducted successful trial runs for the shuttle service on March 6, during which alternate trains operated between Versova and Andheri while others ran the full distance to Ghatkopar. "We tested a new train schedule to boost frequency during peak hours on the Andheri-Ghatkopar stretch. The results were encouraging, and we are closely analysing the impact to optimise future operations," said an MMOPL official.Out of the 60,000 commuters who take Metro 1 during peak hours, only around 7,500 travel to stations such as Azad Nagar, D N Nagar and Versova whereas 87.5% (52,500) travel between Andheri and Ghatkopar.With the proposed shuttle service, Metro One expects to accommodate an additional 5,000 passengers during peak hours. The frequency of trains on this section will improve, reducing the headway from 220 seconds to 205 seconds—an over 8% increase in capacity.Regular Metro commuters have welcomed the move, saying the Andheri-Ghatkopar stretch often experiences heavy footfall. "During rush hours, it's tough to get into the train. If this shuttle service increases frequency, it will be a huge relief," said Ajay Shah, a daily commuter from Ghatkopar.Currently, Metro One operates around 430 trips on weekdays, with the first trains departing at 5:30am from both Versova and Ghatkopar. The last services run at 11:25pm from Versova and 11:50pm from Ghatkopar. Launched in June 2014, Mumbai Metro One provides a much-needed alternative to the heavily congested Andheri-Kurla Road, which houses several corporate offices and hotels. "This stretch is one of the busiest in Mumbai. Any improvement in Metro services directly benefits thousands of office-goers," said transport expert Rishi Verma.MMOPL is expected to finalise the implementation plan for the shuttle service soon, providing a smoother and faster commute for Mumbaikars. Metro One is the only corridor executed through a public-private partnership.