The Mumbai Metro authorities have decided to instal three more automated fare collection (AFC) gates at Ghatkopar station on account of the unexpected rush at the metro stations, particularly Ghatkopar.
Currently there are seven sets of AFC gates at Ghatkopar and the need for more was felt in the first week of operations itself. Commuters are now forced to wait in the long queues, both at the entrance and exit, for over 10-15 minutes.
"In the next couple of weeks or by early next week, three more AFC gates would be installed at Ghatkopar metro station, taking the total number to 10," said Abhay Kumar Mishra, chief executive officer, Mumbai Metro One Private Limited (MMOPL). The new collection gates will come up on either ends of the station's concourse level.
With this, the waiting time at Ghatkopar would be reduced considerably, making it easier to manage and guide the crowd.
As per the data available on footfalls at the 12 metro stations of Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar corridor, Ghatkopar had the maximum (27%), followed by Andheri (20%) and Versova (12%). The balance (41%) is spread over the remaining nine stations—Jagruti Nagar, Asalpha, Saki Naka, Marol, Airport Road, Chakala-JB Nagar, Western Express Highway, Azad Nagar and DN Nagar.
The high ratio at Versova station is primarily due to joyriders wanting to experience the metro ride from one end to the other.
Free ride for kids on June 14, 15
Mumbai Metro is offering weekend joyride exclusively for toddlers on June 14 and 15. All children up to the age of 12 and/or of 4 feet height accompanied by parents would be offered ride free-of-cost between any two stations. However, parents or other adults accompanying the children, would have to buy tokens or use smart cards.
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