The Metro-3 line from Aarey JVLR to Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) is up and running. Several first-time commuters were happy with the service and impressed with the infrastructure. Yet, others said connectivity to stations is an issue. Some said autorickshaws will now ply feeder routes to these stations. This may mean more customers for auto wallahs but they warned that commuters should not have to deal with an auto mafia, which can inflate fares and hold commuters to ransom.

It is vital that the Metro steers clear of the problems that assail rail commuters. Access to and exit from railway stations are compromised because of hawkers who line the pavements outside. Two-wheelers may be parked close by, rickshaws fight for space, there is a general hurly-burly with commuters wending through vehicles, hawkers, general public and obstructions galore to get to the station. If we can keep Metro stations free of this menace, it will be a lesson well-learnt.