Just two days after its launch, Mumbai’s Metro is already showing signs of misuse. Paan stains, food packets, and spit marks have begun to appear across stations and coaches, with the CSMT subway entry emerging as the most littered spot. Even as the system remains in its discovery phase, commuters have started bringing litter inside.
Metro staff expressed concern over the early defacement of the new infrastructure. “We had hoped the public would treat this world-class system with care. Instead, we are already seeing litter and stains that should never have appeared on Day 2 itself,” said an official on duty at CSMT.
A commuter also voiced disappointment: “It’s disheartening to see people disrespecting the Metro. This is a facility for all of us, and if people don’t take responsibility, it will soon look like any neglected subway.”
Authorities have indicated increased vigilance and stricter fines if the trend continues. “The system is in its discovery phase, but if this behaviour persists, strong enforcement will be needed,” added a security supervisor.
Meanwhile, security personnel have started confiscating lighters, matchsticks, and other inflammable items at entry points — a move similar to the Pune Metro, which recently seized over 12.46 kilograms of loose tobacco, 986 gutka packets, and 1,325 lighters and matchboxes within a week (from 22 to 29 September).
Slight dip in BEST bus numbers in SoBo as Metro takes off
As Metro Line 3 (Aqua Line) begins drawing commuters in South Mumbai, traffic patterns are beginning to shift. Data from BEST headquarters shows a decline of about 3,500 passengers this week, attributed to the launch of the Metro.
While the drop is small, it reflects an early but notable shift in commuter preferences as the Metro penetrates deeper into South Mumbai. BEST officials are monitoring the trend as they continue to assess the impact of the new rail system on traditional transport networks.
