Mumbai Metro 1 Launches Shuttle Service Between Andheri And Ghatkopar: What You Need To Know

Mumbai Metro 1 Pvt Ltd (MMOPL) has announced a new shuttle service between Andheri and Ghatkopar to improve connectivity and ease congestion on the busy Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar corridor, according to a Times Now report. This move aims to provide relief to thousands of daily commuters, especially during peak hours.

Trials for the shuttle service were successfully conducted on March 6. During the trials, some trains operated between Versova and Andheri, while others ran the full route to Ghatkopar. "We tested a revised train schedule to explore ways to increase frequency during peak hours. The results were promising, and we are now analysing data to optimise future operations," an MMOPL official stated, as per the same report.

Shuttle Service

Out of the 60,000 commuters using Metro 1 during peak hours, around 52,500 travel between Andheri and Ghatkopar, while only about 7,500 commute to stations like Azad Nagar, D N Nagar, and Versova. The new shuttle service is expected to accommodate an additional 5,000 passengers, helping to manage the heavy rush.

Increased Frequency

The shuttle service will also improve train frequency on the Andheri-Ghatkopar stretch, reducing the headway from 220 seconds to 205 seconds. This will lead to an over 8 per cent increase in capacity. Many daily commuters have welcomed the move. "Boarding a train during peak hours is a struggle. If this shuttle service helps reduce waiting time, it will be a huge relief," said Ajay Shah, a regular commuter from Ghatkopar.

Currently, Mumbai Metro 1 operates around 430 trips on weekdays, with services running from 5:30 am to 11:25 pm from Versova and until 11:50 pm from Ghatkopar. Since its launch in June 2014, Metro 1 has provided a crucial alternative to the congested Andheri-Kurla Road, which houses several corporate offices and hotels.