Enthusiasm, excitement and mild confusion was palpable at the Miyapur Metro station on Wednesday, the first day of commercial operations of the Hyderabad Metro Rail.
Several passengers reached the station well before 6 a.m - the time of departure of the first train - to experience the city’s first metro ride.
But the enthusiasm to get on the first train was short-lived for some as two ticket counters on either side of the station seemed inadequate to dispense tickets quickly.
Passengers were disappointed after the sole staff at the counter was slow, after which they proceeded to the automated ticket counter. However, staff were unavailable to guide users to navigate the machine.
One passenger who wanted to pay Rs 120 held up the line after he inserted a Rs 100 note and two Rs 10 notes all at once after which the notes got jammed. A mild argument ensued.
Once on the train, disappointment turned into excitement with people clicking selfies. Most had arrived solely for the experience. There were also students making their way to colleges and coaching centres in and around Ameerpet.
Several unaware passengers who were supposed to disembark at Ameerpet station didn't do so and took the same train back to Miyapur. This caused confusion because when they swiped out, they were denied exit.
The issue was brought to the attention of L & T officials who directed them to customer care counters within the ticketed section. To prevent confusion, L&T officials then announced that passengers must swipe out after disembarking.
As the day progressed, the number of passengers swelled. Officials were seen selling prepaid cards to ease the rush.
According to estimates, the footfall at the Miyapur station was about 2500 from 6 a.m to 7 a.m.
