Pune Metro commuters were up in arms on Friday when services were suspended from 6am to 3pm due to Dhulivandan (the second day of the Holi festival). Although metro services resumed at 3pm, commuters voiced their frustration, pointing out that essential services are not shut down in any part of the world for festivals, so why in Pune?
Speaking to The Free Press Journal, Sagar Bansode, a digital manager, said, "I rely on the metro to reach my office at Yerwada from Swargate on time every day. The sudden suspension forced me to look for alternative transportation, which not only cost me more, but I also faced the risk of being sprayed with water and colours by youngsters."
Azim Shaikh, a resident of Gangadham Chowk, added, "I usually prefer metro services to go from Swargate to Ramwadi. Due to business work, I need to travel 3-5 times from Swargate to Ramwadi and Ramwadi to Swargate daily. However, today, I had to hire an auto for the whole day, which is not only expensive but also wasted my time in traffic."
Another commuter, Sneha Gore, expressed, "The celebrations are understandable, but the metro authority should have provided alternative solutions or shuttle services to help regular passengers. I am dependent on metro services to reach my office on time. However, I opted for another transport medium today."
Payal More, a college student, emphasised, "Why are Pune Metro services closed due to Holi? I don’t think Mumbai locals shut down for any festival. The Pune Metro was halted last year for Diwali as well. Such suspensions should be avoided, especially since people are now relying on the metro."
