Metro proves it's city lifeline

With an increased frequency and nearly no major technical snag, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has beaten all odds to shoulder the bulk of crowd during the city government’s 15-day road rationing scheme that started from January 1. Hence, proving once again, it is the lifeline of the national capital.

Though Delhi Metro saw above normal rush during the peak hours, its increased frequency did the trick. Even commuters praised the Delhi Metro’s efforts of running additional trains during the 15-day odd-even trial period. “Usually I have to wait for 10 to 15 minutes at Dwarka Mor to get a train to Dwarka Sector 21, but during this 15-day period I was abe to get a metro within 4 to 5 minutes,” said Urvashi Shukla, who works with a non-profit organisation.

“Had the Delhi Metro not run additional trains during peak hours, there would have been massive rush at the major intersections like Rajiv Chowk and Central Secretariat,” said Rohit Trivedi, a government employee.

Even car owners appreciated Metro services. “I seldom take Metro to reach my office in Okhla, I prefer my car over public transport. I had to take Metro once or twice during the odd-even scheme and it changed my perception about the public transport,” said Ravi Kalra, CEO of a private firm. “I am actually thinking to take Metro to reach my office at least a couple of times a month,” added Kalra who lives in Vasant Kunj.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) said that necessary measures were planned in advance and put in place to manage additional rush of passengers. “All lines and stations were thoroughly monitored throughout the day to ensure smooth operations at all stations on different corridors.”

Even first time travellers did not have a hard time reaching their destinations. “I never take Metro or DTC bus to commute in the city as I have my own car. But the government’s odd-even restrictions forced me to take the Metro. To my surprise, I likeed it,” said Tanya Narula, who works at an MNC.

“It’s not that over crowded like people say. Or may be it’s because of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation’s increased frequency of trains, but it’s the most convenient way to reach your destinations,” she added.

Experts said that the Delhi Metro has a potential of sustaining an increased frequency if provided an adequate infrastructure as such an mechanism would require more trains.