Long queues  both at entrance and exit gates and a waiting time of ten to fifteen minutes have forced  the Mumbai Metro authorities to install three more automated fare collection (AFC) gates at Ghatkopar metro station on account of the unexpected rush at the metro stations, particularly Ghatkopar in the eastern suburbs.

 

Currently, there are seven sets of AFC gates at Ghatkopar and the need for more was felt in the first week of the maiden operations. "We will install three more AFC gates at Ghatkopar metro station, taking the total number to 10," said Abhay Kumar Mishra, chief executive officer, Mumbai Metro One Private Limited (MMOPL). 

 

The new collection gates will come up on either ends of the station's concourse level.With this, the waiting time at Ghatkopar would be reduced considerably, making it easier to manage and guide the crowd.

 

Paresh Kamdar, a Metro commuter remarks, “During peak hours we have to wait not less than twenty minutes, on any of the gate, as everybody travels by Metro.  We need more AFC gates as it will bring down the waiting time.” According to latest figures out of the total 20 lakh commuters who are now using the Metro, Ghatkopar station handles 5 lakh commuters.