Even after the much-hyped launch of the Yellow Line, commuters are voicing frustration over a basic issue — inadequate seating at Metro stations. With trains arriving every 25 minutes during the initial phase, passengers, especially the elderly and those with health concerns, are forced to stand for long periods.
A reality check by TOI found no benches at stations like Bommasandra, Ragigguda, Electronic City, and Silk Board. Many passengers were seen sitting on slabs around pillars or even stairs. “Without proper seating, travel becomes exhausting, especially after work,” said Pradeep Ramareddy, a daily commuter.
Senior citizen Sulochana S. recalled waiting 20 minutes at Jayadeva Hospital station before a fellow passenger offered her a seat on a slab. “Seats should be arranged for elderly people. Standing for long is not possible at our age,” she said.
First-time users expressed shock at the absence of benches. Student Samrudha Varshini called it “sad” that such a basic facility was overlooked after years of construction. Another commuter, KK Sudha Mai, noted she couldn’t find a single chair during her 18-minute wait.
The problem is not confined to the Yellow Line — overcrowding and insufficient seating plague other stations as well. While BMRCL officials acknowledged the gap, they assured commuters these teething issues would be addressed soon.