MMRDA committee to look into Metro I crowding

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has constituted a “high-level committee” to ensure improvements are made to reduce overcrowding on the Metro 1 line (Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar), a day after a technical failure on one of the trains led to excess crowding at the Ghatkopar and Andheri metro stations.

- Ateeq Shaikh

In a public statement on Tuesday, MMRDA said it has acknowledged the operational challenges on the 11-year-old metro line operated by Mumbai Metro One Private Limited (MMOPL), a special purpose vehicle in which the government body holds a 26% stake. The remaining 74% stake is held by the Anil Ambani-led Reliance Infrastructure.

“As a responsible stakeholder, MMRDA is taking the matter seriously,” the statement said. “A high-level committee under the leadership of a former chief secretary will be constituted immediately. MMRDA will also engage with the operator to seek immediate improvements and ensure a reliable and comfortable commuting experience.”