The Chennai Metro Rail has experienced an unprecedented rise in daily ridership, reaching an average of three lakh passengers per day. According to Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL), a record-breaking 95.35 lakh passengers utilised the Metro services in July, marking an increase of 11.01 lakh passengers compared to June.
This spike represents the highest monthly ridership recorded since the inception of Metro train services in the city. The upward trend in passenger numbers highlights the growing popularity and reliance on the Metro as a vital mode of transportation in Chennai. A breakdown of the monthly ridership reveals that January saw 84.63 lakh passengers, followed by 86.15 lakh in February, 86.82 lakh in March, 80.87 lakh in April, and 84.21 lakh in May. June witnessed a slight increase with 84.33 lakh passengers, but it was in July that the Metro system experienced a significant surge.
The highest single-day ridership for July was recorded on the 12th, with an impressive 3.50 lakh passengers utilising the Metro services. This peak underscores the Metro’s crucial role in facilitating urban mobility amidst Chennai’s bustling city life. CMRL also provided data on the distribution of passengers based on ticketing methods. The “Singara Chennai” card accounted for 19.96 lakh passengers, while 35.31 lakh used the travel card. The online QR code option was utilised by 1.83 lakh passengers, and the static QR code by 2.77 lakh. Meanwhile, paper QR codes were used by 22.09 lakh passengers.
The surge in ridership reflects the effectiveness of CMRL’s efforts to provide efficient and reliable public transport. The Metro’s increasing appeal can be attributed to its punctuality, cleanliness, and convenience, offering a favourable alternative to road traffic congestion. The Metro’s growing popularity is a testament to its pivotal role in the city’s public transport landscape, catering to a diverse demographic and easing the daily commute for millions. As the Metro expands its network and services, it is poised to become an even more integral part of Chennai’s urban infrastructure, enhancing connectivity and reducing travel times for its residents.
