Impressions of Arrival
The journey began with Rory Porter, a British traveler, documenting his initial encounters with the Delhi Metro, specifically on the Blue Line. His first
notable observation was the security process, which he likened to airport-level checks, involving bag scanners. This systematic approach set a tone of orderliness for his experience. Following this, he commented on the surprisingly low fare for a significant journey, noting it cost only Rs 43 (approximately £0.35) for a half-hour ride. He immediately pegged this as one of the most affordable metro systems he had encountered globally, setting a benchmark for cost-effectiveness right from the start of his exploration. The visual appeal of the trains also caught his eye, describing the silver metro trains as "very good" and distinctly modern, contributing to a positive first impression.
Comfort and Cleanliness
As Rory Porter's ride progressed, he delved deeper into the interior experience of the Delhi Metro coaches. His assessment of the cleanliness was highly complimentary, stating they were "very clean indeed" and notably mentioned a pleasant smell, a detail often overlooked in public transport. The seating arrangements also received praise; he observed "lots of seats" and described the interior as "extremely modern." Crucially, he pointed out that the train was "not very overcrowded either," with ample seating available and very few passengers resorting to standing. This lack of congestion significantly enhanced his perception of comfort. He summarized his impressions by calling it potentially "one of the best ones I have been on in the world," emphasizing its efficiency, extensive network of stations, air-conditioned environment, and overall cleanliness, even directly contrasting it favorably with the London Underground. This comprehensive review underscored a high level of satisfaction with the daily commuter experience.
Public Reactions and Comparisons
Following the viral spread of Rory Porter's video, the Delhi Metro's perceived excellence generated a diverse array of responses online. Many users expressed pride in India's public transportation system, with one commenter highlighting its global renown, modern amenities, and ability to showcase vibrant state cultures, actively encouraging tourism. However, the traveler's glowing review also prompted cautionary notes from other users. Some pointed out that the experience could drastically differ during peak office hours (8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.), suggesting that the perceived spaciousness and comfort might be absent then, and that medical facilities or toilets were not available on the trains. Another user suggested a comparison with Mumbai's underground metro, implying it might offer a more luxurious experience. These varied opinions illustrate the nuanced realities of public transit systems, influenced by factors like time of travel and individual expectations.
