One of the comfortable and convenient city modes of transport from the past, Hyderabad Metro Rail is seeing a free-falling metro rail ridership. Even though initially people accepted it for being punctual, comfortable, and well-connected, the present trend indicates a disenchantment by the public.

Hyderabad Metro Rail is confronted with the challenge of regaining commuter confidence and raising ridership levels. With planning and collective effort, it can be the preferred transport mode for the city anywhere again.

Free-falling Metro Rail ridership

Competition from other modes of transport

One of the strongest drivers of Metro Rail usage is app-based taxi-hailing services like Ola and Uber, and affordable ones like auto-rickshaws and bike taxis. These offer doorstep reach and comfort that the Metro does not, especially to locations outside its catchment.

Limited coverage and connectivity

While Hyderabad Metro Rail has spanned most of the city’s major roads, there are some places that are still out of reach. There is very poor last-mile connectivity to dissuade would-be commuters who desire the Metro’s convenience. As it is poorly linked with other transport options, it is not convenient for the commuter to make the rest of the journey.

High fares

Another issue raised by commuters is the relatively higher fares in the case of pooled auto-rickshaws or local buses. Since Metro Rail fares are not very high for longer distances, for shorter distances they may be unaffordable and therefore cheaper modes of travel are used by commuters.

Impact of remote work

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a rise in work-from-home and hybrid patterns, minimizing day-to-day commutes. Most office commuters are already working from home or embracing hybrid patterns, hence the decline in weekday commuters.

Effects of declining ridership

Declining ridership poses financial issues to Metro Rail authorities, impacting revenues and expenses. Declining ridership also damages the potential of the city for sustainable city transport and reduction in traffic congestion.

Possible Solutions

To address these issues, the Metro Rail authorities can focus on developing last-mile connectivity, low fares, and service improvement in the unserved regions of Hyderabad. Promoting awareness of the green nature of metro travel can convince more commuters to avail themselves of this facility.

ALSO READ: Hyderabad Metro: Fare Hike Amid Rs 625 Crore Loss

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