Mumbai Metro One, which operates the Versova-Ghatkopar corridor, has announced an extension of its operational hours from September 7 to 17, 2024, to accommodate the surge in commuters during the Ganeshotsav festive season. The revised schedule aims to facilitate passengers’ late-night travel as they partake in various celebrations and religious activities across the city.
Under the extended timings, the last Metro train from Versova will now depart for Ghatkopar at 12:10 am, as opposed to the previous 11:20 pm schedule. Similarly, the final train from Ghatkopar to Versova will leave at 12:40 am, instead of the usual 11:45 pm. This adjustment is specifically designed to support the city’s vibrant celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi and Anant Chaturthi, ensuring that devotees can travel with ease and convenience. Mumbai Metro One has seen a steady increase in ridership since its inception in 2014. Last month, it set a new record by transporting over 500,000 passengers in a single day on August 13, 2024.
According to a spokesperson, this milestone was achieved without the influence of any external factors, unlike in 2019 when a nine-day BEST bus strike led to a similar surge in passengers. Recent data reflects a marked increase in weekday ridership, with numbers ranging between 4 lakh to 4.5 lakh commuters earlier this year. By July, this figure had risen to 4.6 lakh, and by August, it further increased to 4.85 lakh, eventually peaking at 5 lakh on August 13. The rise in ridership has been attributed to several innovative marketing strategies undertaken by Mumbai Metro One. These initiatives include loyalty programmes for frequent commuters, corporate engagement activities, community outreach programmes, and the promotion of digital payment options.
Additionally, the Metro’s operations have been enhanced to 430 trips daily, with a frequency of approximately 3.5 minutes during peak hours and 7 minutes during non-peak periods. This decision to extend service hours during the Ganeshotsav is aligned with Mumbai Metro One’s commitment to offering convenient and efficient public transport options. As the city comes alive with festive fervour, the extended metro services will play a crucial role in supporting the movement of thousands of residents and visitors who wish to partake in the celebrations.
