Maha Metro Plans to Introduce E-Autos at Select Metro Stations for Last-Mile Connectivity
Maha Metro has made an exciting announcement that will make commuting in the city easier and more convenient for passengers. The officials have revealed their plans to introduce e-autos at select Metro stations, aiming to enhance last-mile connectivity. Hemant Sonawane, the director of public relations for Maha Metro, shared this development and shed light on their recent visit to Delhi to meet with e-rickshaw service providers.
Delhi’s Successful E-Rickshaw Service Model Inspires Pune and more
During their visit to Delhi, the delegation from Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited’s multi-modal section met with ETO Motors Pvt Ltd and other e-rickshaw service providers who operate services at Metro stations in the Indian capital. Inspired by the success of such services in Delhi, Maha Metro officials are now looking to replicate this model for Pune Metro as well. Last-mile connectivity has long been a concern for Metro systems across the country, and an effective e-auto service can address this challenge.
Limited Adoption of E-Rickshaws in Pune Raises Questions
In Pune, the number of registered e-rickshaws remains considerably low. There are approximately 170 passenger e-rickshaws registered with the Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO), while the number is 37 with the Pimpri Chinchwad RTO. The limited adoption of e-rickshaws can be attributed to previous protests from auto drivers, leading to a lack of popularity and encouraging only a few people to use this mode of transport. However, with Maha Metro’s new initiative, there may be a shift in this trend.
Better Public Transport Infrastructure Essential for Last-Mile Connectivity
While the introduction of e-autos is a positive move, Harshad Abhyankar, the founder of Save Pune Traffic Movement, believes that last-mile connectivity is a common issue faced by many Metro systems. In his opinion, improving the basic bus-based systems should take precedence over investing heavily in Metro projects. Abhyankar argues that Metro systems often operate at a mere 15% capacity, emphasizing the need for a reliable bus network that can efficiently connect passengers to their final destinations.
Maha Metro in Talks with Auto Unions to Address Challenges
Recognizing the existing challenges faced by auto drivers and passengers, Maha Metro is in discussion with auto unions to address the lack of proper infrastructure near Metro stations. Keshav Kshirsagar, president of the Baghtoy Rickshawala autorickshaw union, highlights the absence of signboards indicating nearby areas from Metro stations as a major issue. Installing such signboards would greatly assist passengers and auto drivers in finding each other easily, thereby improving last-mile connectivity.
Overcoming the Challenge of Last-Mile Connectivity
Last-mile connectivity continues to be a significant concern for passengers relying on public transportation in Pune. Although buses operate at half-hour intervals, they often face delays that further exacerbate the challenges faced by commuters. Passengers exiting a Metro station expect immediate transportation, especially for short distances. The introduction of e-autos at select Metro stations can potentially bridge this gap by providing a reliable and efficient mode of transport.
In conclusion, Maha Metro’s plan to introduce e-autos at Metro stations is a promising step towards improving last-mile connectivity in Pune. Inspired by the successful model in Delhi, Maha Metro officials are taking proactive measures to address the challenges faced by passengers, such as the limited adoption of e-rickshaws and inadequate infrastructure near Metro stations. By collaborating with auto unions and focusing on enhancing the overall public transport infrastructure, Maha Metro aims to provide a seamless commuting experience for all.
