Namma Metro hits record 9,17,365 riders on August 14 amid growing concerns of overcrowding in Bengaluru trains

Despite this achievement, increasing passenger numbers have highlighted ongoing issues, particularly overcrowding. Recent videos circulating on social media reveal not only the severe congestion, but also the rising frustration among passengers, with some reports of verbal disputes as passengers struggle to find space.

On August 14, Namma Metro set a new record with 9,17,365 passengers using its services, as reported by Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL). Significantly, the previous record for highest ridership was 8,65,000, set on August 6, 2024, less than 10 days ago.

According to BMRCL, the Purple Line, which connects Challaghatta in west Bengaluru to Kadugodi (Whitefield) in the east, saw 4,43,000 riders. The Green Line, from Nagasandra in the northwest to Silk Institute in south Bengaluru, recorded 3,01,000 passengers.

The Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Station (Majestic interchange station) also experienced significant footfalls, with 1,72,000 passengers passing through on August 14.

Despite this achievement, increasing passenger numbers have highlighted ongoing issues, particularly overcrowding. Recent videos circulating on social media reveal not only the severe congestion, but also the rising frustration among passengers, with some reports of verbal disputes as passengers struggle to find space.

In response to these concerns, BMRCL officials claimed that several measures aimed at alleviating congestion were being taken. These include implementing short-loop services during peak hours to distribute the passenger load more evenly, and ensuring that train intervals are kept at three minutes, or less, to manage the high volume of commuters effectively.