While metro stations above ground operate smoothly, the Swargate station’s underground positioning is causing disruptions. Commuters have been forced to rely on cash and cards as online payment methods, including UPI, often fail due to the poor network signal. Long queues at ticket counters have become a common sight, leading to frustration among daily passengers who expected a more streamlined commuting experience.

Ninad Kale, a commuter on the newly inaugurated route, said “Swargate station is finally operational, but when I tried to buy a ticket yesterday (Oct 2), I had to wait in line because there was no network. I couldn’t use UPI at the vending machine and ended up waiting for what felt like ages.”

College student Pramod Savlikar echoed similar sentiments: “I’ve started carrying cash now because there’s no reliable network at the metro station. We have no choice but to depend on cash and cards. The authorities really need to move the vending machines to a location with better network access.”

Authorities have assured investigation at Swargate station, and necessary arrangements.

The Pune Metro was expected to revolutionize public transport in the city, providing a modern, hassle-free commuting experience. However, the ongoing issues at Swargate station are raising concerns about the project’s planning and implementation. With network problems affecting even basic functions like ticket purchasing, commuters are beginning to question the reliability of the system as a whole.

In an era where digital payments are standard, the reliance on cash transactions at a supposedly state-of-the-art metro station feels like a step backward. The growing dissatisfaction among commuters signals the need for immediate action by the authorities to address these fundamental issues and ensure the smooth operation of the metro service.