The Delhi Metro hit a new milestone with its highest-ever single-day passenger count of 8,244,903 on September 17, as reported by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). This surge in ridership coincided with a strike by private agency drivers working with the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC), which led to thousands of buses being out of service for a fourth consecutive day.
The absence of bus services put additional pressure on alternative public transport options, prompting the Delhi Metro to enhance its operations. To accommodate the increased demand, the DMRC added 20 extra train trips and deployed eight additional trains, particularly targeting peak travel hours to manage the influx of passengers.
Efforts to ensure smooth operations and security were bolstered by collaboration between the DMRC and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). These measures were crucial in handling the heightened commuter volume and maintaining safety standards across the metro network.
The record-breaking footfall underscores the critical role of the Delhi Metro as a primary public transport option in the Delhi-National Capital Region, especially during times of disruption in other transport services. This development highlights the metro’s capacity to adapt and serve as a reliable alternative when traditional bus services are unavailable.