Pune Metro Ridership Plateaus Amid Last-Mile Connectivity Challenges
Daily ridership on the Pune Metro has remained stagnant at approximately 2 lakh passengers for the past four months, failing to show any significant increase since the conclusion of Ganeshotsav in September 2025. Regular commuters from Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad attribute this stagnation primarily to weak last-mile connectivity at various stations across the network.
Commuters Voice Frustrations Over Connectivity Gaps
Commuters report that the lack of efficient last-mile transportation options is deterring potential riders from utilizing the Metro system. While feeder buses are operational at several stations, users complain about low frequency and unreliable services, rendering them ineffective for daily travel needs. Additionally, autorickshaw drivers are frequently accused of overcharging, refusing to use meters, and declining short-distance trips, further exacerbating the connectivity crisis.
Ridership Data Reveals Post-Festival Decline
Official statistics highlight a notable peak in monthly ridership during September 2025, when over 75 lakh commuters traveled on both operational routes. However, numbers have since declined, stabilizing between 59 lakh and 62 lakh monthly. Prior to September 2025, monthly ridership hovered around 60 lakh. In January, the figure reached 62.1 lakh, with an average daily ridership of 2 lakh. Detailed monthly footfall data shows 1.96 lakh in December 2025, 2.04 lakh in November, and 1.91 lakh in October on the Vanaz to Ramwadi and Swargate to Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation routes.
Commuters Highlight Specific Issues
Frequent commuter Sagar Kate observed that Metro ridership spikes during festivals like Ganeshotsav, Diwali, and New Year, but normal-day numbers remain stuck at 2 lakh. He emphasized the need for administrative efforts to replicate festival-level engagement consistently.
Another regular traveler, Viky Patil, pointed out deficiencies in feeder services between Yerawada and Ramwadi Metro stations, noting that initial punctuality has given way to delays and cancellations. "Those heading to the airport cannot afford long waits. Frequency must increase, and night services are notably absent," he added.
Parking Problems Add to Commuter Woes
Commuters at core city Metro stations face significant parking challenges, particularly for two-wheelers. Sumit Shah, who boards at Garware College Metro station, reported no dedicated parking lot nearby, with existing facilities like the one at Nal Stop being chaotic. Even originating stations such as Vanaz and Ramwadi lack adequate dedicated parking spaces, complicating daily travel for many.
Officials Respond to Connectivity and Parking Concerns
With over 29 Metro stations operational across two routes, Maha Metro officials acknowledge the issues and state they are continuously working to enhance feeder services. "Some bus routes have been redesigned to better serve Metro commuters, and plans are underway to add more vehicles. A joint review of airport feeder buses with PMPML is also planned," they explained.
Regarding parking, officials cite a scarcity of open space near existing stations as a major hurdle. Efforts to acquire private plots are ongoing but incomplete. Meanwhile, the Regional Transport Office has established fare charts for shared auto schemes from certain stations, though compliance among drivers remains inconsistent. Autorickshaw unions, however, claim to provide dedicated halts at stations.
Broader Transportation Challenges in Pune
Sources indicate that PMPML is grappling with a bus shortage, with new procurements in the pipeline. Enhancing the existing fleet is expected to improve feeder services, potentially boosting Metro ridership in the long term. This situation underscores the interconnected nature of Pune's public transportation system and the need for coordinated improvements to address commuter needs effectively.
