Metro One decides to run around 200 Metros every day on the 12-km long Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar section, which is expected to open for commuters this month if it gets the safety certification.

“During peak hours we will run trains every four minutes, at other times the frequency will come down to 8-10 minutes,” informed Abhay Kumar Mishra, chief executive officer of Mumbai Metro One Private Ltd (MMOPL).

The Rs 4,321-crore venture swears to cut travel time between the eastern and western suburbs, bringing the Andheri-Ghatkopar travel down to 21 minutes. Mishra said the Metro will firstly handle around 7 lakh travelers daily. The line is estimated to cater to nearly 11 lakh passengers daily when the number of coaches is increased to six.
 

While final safety assessments of the Metro have been completed, it is waiting for the commercial operations. “Commercial operations can start within seven days from the date of receipt of the safety certificate from the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS),” Mishra informed.

The CMRS finished the safety examination on April 28. Sources revealed he was waiting for certain approvals, regarding rolling stock and electricals, from the railway board before issuing the certificate, adding the process may take at least a week.

    The Metro has a total of 16 rakes in its fleet, each fixed with advanced systems to guarantee zero collision. The wholly air-conditioned rakes are built with fire-resistant substances and have wheelchair facilities for the disabled. The trains will also have additional features like dynamic route maps and LED destination signage.
 

MMOPL informed travelers will have multiple ticketing options. “Apart from tokens and smart cards, commuters can also buy tickets from ticket-vending machines that can accept all forms of currency, except Re 1 coins which are smaller in size and weight,” a MMOPL official said.
 

Stations will be evacuated in 4 minutes if the urgent situation develops.