For the first time in decades, a rail-based transit system has entered South Mumbai. The much-awaited Mumbai Metro Aqua Line 3, running all the way to Cuffe Parade, marks the return of trains to the city’s southern tip, 95 years after the Colaba station on the Bombay, Baroda and Central India Railway (Western Railway) shut down.
The Metro 3 line has been designed for seamless integration with major suburban railway hubs, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Churchgate, Grant Road, and Mumbai Central. At CSMT, access is provided through the common BMC subway, while at Mumbai Central, the Metro entry and exit open directly inside the railway station premises near the approach area.
While this is the first day for the public, citizens are urged to make it a memorable one. There may be some confusion initially, as several people seem puzzled about where the exits lead them. Not every landmark can be mentioned inside the station, so it will take some time and several visits to gauge which exit works best for your destination.
The wise approach is to start your journey a few minutes ahead of time if you are negotiating the Metro landscape for the first time. Polite interaction with staff and keeping a cool head will go a long way in ensuring a smooth experience.
Some passengers have been observed getting irritable with Metro staffers, especially when the latter look for change at the ticket counters. Others appear to be in a hurry, rushing past security and expressing frustration when the turnstile stays closed. It is important to follow instructions and allow for some hiccups during these initial days.
There will inevitably be some back and forth as bewildered commuters find their way. We ask everyone to allow some leeway and keep their ire in check even when tested.
Mumbai’s travel landscape is in flux. With any new transport addition, even an extension, challenges are bound to arise. Let us embrace patience and understanding as Metro 3 speeds through the city, ushering in a new era of connectivity and convenience.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/opinion/article/exercise-patience-while-negotiating-metro-landscape-23597858
