Moneylife Foundation Study Highlights Accessibility Gaps in Mumbai Metro Line 3
A study by the non-profit Moneylife Foundation has revealed major accessibility gaps across all 27 stations of the 33.5-kilometer Mumbai Metro Aqua Line (Line 3). The report highlighted significant challenges for commuters, including long flights of stairs, a lack of downward escalators, and poor last-mile connectivity.
The study, titled 'Accessibility and User-Friendliness of Mumbai Metro Aqua Line (Line 3)', was conducted by Ashoka University interns Agamya Jain and Mihika Omseema. The researchers surveyed every station along the corridor to evaluate the experience from a commuter's perspective.
According to the findings, accessibility varies considerably depending on the station exit. Many exits require commuters to climb long flights of stairs, while downward escalators are only available at a limited number of locations. This setup creates significant barriers for senior citizens, families with young children, and passengers carrying heavy luggage.
The study also pointed out specific issues at airport stations, where passengers face long walking distances and a limited supply of baggage trolleys. While lifts and escalators are generally operational across the network, the report noted that vertical mobility planning and wayfinding signage need significant improvement.
Based on these observations, the Moneylife Foundation recommended installing more downward escalators, improving directional signage, and strengthening last-mile connectivity with other transport modes. The non-profit has shared its report with several authorities, including the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC), and the Maharashtra government.
In response to the study, an MMRC spokesperson stated that the agency would examine the report in detail once it is received. The spokesperson explained that physical space constraints at both ground and underground levels prevented the installation of twin escalators at all entry and exit points. However, they noted that all stations have at least two lifts to assist wheelchair users, and that multimodal integration work is currently underway in coordination with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and BEST.
