20 June,2026 10:31 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. Aklekar
Mumbai Metro officials said the heavy rush continued throughout the day. Representational Pic/File
Mumbai Metro network witnessed a significant rise in passenger numbers as commuters looked for alternative modes of transport during the ongoing BEST bus strike, officials said on Saturday.
According to figures released up to 7 pm, Mumbai Metro ridership reached 181,716 passengers, marking a notable increase compared with recent days.
Ridership data showed a steady rise over the past week:
- 12 June 2026 (Friday): 144,291 passengers
- 18 June 2026 (Thursday): 151,502 passengers
- 19 June 2026 (Friday): 181,716 passengers (up to 7.00 pm)
The increase is being attributed largely to commuters shifting from bus services to metro travel amid disruptions caused by the BEST strike.
A spokesperson for the Versova-Ghatkopar Metro line said passenger numbers were significantly higher than those recorded during the first Saturday of June.
According to the spokesperson, ridership up to 6.30 pm on 19 June was already 60,706 passengers higher than the corresponding period on June 6.
The total ridership recorded on June 6 stood at 358,800 passengers.
Mumbai Metro officials said the heavy rush continued throughout the day, raising expectations that total ridership could exceed 400,000 passengers by the end of service.
The spokesperson noted that strong commuter demand was being witnessed across the network as travellers sought reliable transport options during the disruption to bus services.
The surge in metro usage highlights the important role played by Mumbai's rail-based transport systems during periods of disruption to road-based public transport.
With thousands of commuters affected by the BEST strike, metro services have emerged as one of the primary alternatives for daily travel across the city.
