The Pune Metro has witnessed a surge in ticketless travel, prompting strict actions against 1,764 passengers over the past five months. The Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (Maha-Metro) reveals that most cases occurred at the Ruby Hall, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and Civil Court metro stations.
Increasing Ridership and Penalties
Following the Metro expansion from Vanaz to Ruby Hall and Pimpri-Chinchwad to Civil Court in August 2023, daily passengers have risen to an estimated 50,000 to 55,000. In response, Maha-Metro has implemented rigorous regulations and penalties for those without valid tickets. Between August 2023 and January 2024, 1,764 commuters faced punitive measures for ticketless travel.
Ticket Purchase Options and Regulations
Passengers have various options to purchase tickets, including the Metro app, WhatsApp, ‘Ek Pune Card,’ and ATVM machines at every station. The Pune Metro announced penalties for invalid or ticketless travel in September 2023, with a ₹85 fine. Passengers must commence their journey within 20 minutes of ticket purchase; otherwise, a ₹10 per hour fine, up to ₹50, is imposed.
Maintaining Order and Ensuring Compliance
Hemant Sonawane, executive director of the Pune Metro, emphasized the importance of fines in discouraging ticketless travel and ensuring adherence to guidelines. With increased ridership, the Metro aims to maintain order and promote a smooth travel experience.
Upcoming Metro Expansion Plans
While the Pune Metro initially planned to extend services from Vanaz to Ruby Hall Clinic up to Ramwadi in February, the start awaits the safety certificate from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS). Once operational, this stretch will complete the Line 2 route covering Vanaz to Ramwadi.
