In Mumbai's Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC),inaugural Public Transport Day Friday didn't quite hit the mark with commuters. Concerns about last-mile connectivity were loud. Launched by Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA),the initiative aimed to cut traffic and boost sustainability.
Commuters pointed to struggles reaching BKC,especially needing better Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport Undertaking (BEST) links to train stations. Dilnaz,36,usually drives to work. She joined in by traveling from Bandra West. “Good initiative,but more effort needed as last-mile connectivity is lacking,” she said. Her trip involved several shared autos,not ideal compared to a direct route.
Traffic jams,high auto fares were common complaints . Last-mile options are buses,autos,both tricky . Many want more frequent,reliable BEST service to make commutes smoother. The 5 km stretch from Bandra East station to BKC can take 25 minutes at rush hour. With fewer cars on road,some saw slight travel time improvements.
Ishan Naik,37,usually drives 12 km from Worli to BKC,takes 40 minutes. On Public Transport Day,he took metro,shared auto,stretching travel to 50 minutes. “Linear travel (North to South) easy,central to east (Worli to BKC) tedious,” he said. Manageable for one day,still shows transport issues.
MMRDA's 'no car day' push was to get folks using buses,metro,taxis,autos. They ran public awareness campaign before event,aimed at commuters and MMRDA staff. BKC,spanning 370 hectares,hosts National Stock Exchange,U.S. Consulate,one of Mumbai's busiest zones.
Dhananjay,31,chose to walk 1.5 km from Bandra East station to Family Court in E-Block. Usually takes auto but found walking “doable” for day. Normally takes train or direct bus from Dahisar . MMRDA said several businesses,BKC Property Association,Bharat Diamond Bourse,backed initiative,while BEST upped service between Bandra, Kurla stations.
Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation urged use of Metro 3 line,Aarey to Cuffe Parade,to reach BKC. But despite initial turnout,Public Transport Day shows need for better last-mile connectivity to really catch on with daily commuters…
