Mumbai: Akhil Anil Chitre, Youth Wing leader of the Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray-led Shiv Sena, has strongly criticised the absence of mobile network and internet connectivity on Mumbai Metro Line 3, calling it a serious inconvenience and a potential safety risk for thousands of daily commuters.
In a letter addressed to the authorities, Chitre highlighted the complete lack of mobile signal, internet access, UPI payment capability, and emergency contact facilities on the underground corridor of Metro Line 3. “This is highly unacceptable,” he wrote, adding that the issue has caused “major disruption to the daily lives of commuters.”
Chitre alleged that technical and financial disputes between the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRCL) and telecom companies are delaying the rollout of network services. He also raised concerns about a reported monopoly granted to a private contractor, effectively sidelining other telecom providers.
“What deals were made behind closed doors? For whose benefit? And who is bothered by it? To the common Mumbaikar!” Chitre questioned, demanding transparency and prioritization of public interest in infrastructure decisions.
Chitre, speaking on behalf of commuters and citizens, issued four key demands: Immediate provision of mobile network services across all stations and tunnels on Metro Line 3, Transparent disclosure of actions being taken to resolve the issue, An official explanation and apology for the prolonged inconvenience and Long-term measures to ensure uninterrupted digital access and prevent future disruptions.
Chitre urged authorities to act swiftly to restore faith and ensure a seamless travel experience for commuters.
Metro Line 3, one of Mumbai’s most ambitious infrastructure projects, is expected to significantly reduce road congestion and improve connectivity across the city. However, the absence of mobile services continues to frustrate daily users, with mounting pressure now coming from political quarters.
