From witnessing the Metro Rail progressing slowly from one stage to the next even while confronting a variety of challenges, taking a ride on the first day indeed was indeed spectacular experience.
For those who have travelled by the Metro in Delhi, Mumbai or Bangalore, the Chennai Metro may be just another train. But in a city where commuters are used to poorly-maintained MRTS and suburban stations, the Metro will certainly be a breath of fresh air.
From exclusive seats for the differently-abled and ladies coaches to informative audio announcements, you realise the rakes are equipped with everything. Each rake also has information on the CMRL helpline number and facilities for passengers to directly speak to the train operator in case of an emergency.
Though the train can zip through at 80 km/hour, it maintains an average speed of 35 km/hour and reaches Alandur to Koyambedu in about 20 minutes.
The stations look swanky, but there are a few hitches that Chennai Metro Rail may want to rectify, including the lack of drinking water facilities in stations and availability of just one toilet per station (no signage).
Since it was the first day, Metro Rail staff were present in every corner of the station to help passengers. Again, as someone who has seen the metro rail grow, you just wish they get their act together and fix all that can be set right.
