Runner With Shoes In Hand Stopped At Bengaluru Metro, Internet Backs BMRCL

Last Updated:March 16, 2026, 14:21 IST

Carrying dirty shoes by hand is a hygiene risk. They can accidentally touch other passengers in crowded spaces. It also creates unpleasant odours in air-conditioned coaches.

A runner at Bengaluru’s Cubbon Park Metro Station recently sparked a viral debate. Mr Shyam Mohan tried to enter the station barefoot while carrying his running shoes on March 13^th but security staff ate metro station stopped him immediately. He later shared his frustration on social media. However, the response wasn’t what he expected. The incident has now turned into a public lesson on urban etiquette and civic sense.

He shared his experience on X to question the sudden enforcement:

“I had taken off my shoes to stretch my feet while returning home from a run, and that’s how I entered Cubbon Park Metro Station. This isn’t the first time I’ve done this; however, it is the first time the staff stopped me. I thought it was a personal bias, so I went to another gate, but I was stopped again. This time, the staff were reasonable and explained the rules to me" he wrote on his X account.

Mr Shyam Mohan claimed that he took off his shoes to let his feet ‘stretch and cool down’ after a long run. He admitted to doing this before without being questioned or stopped.

Metro’s Clarification

BMRCL officials quickly clarified the situation to public. Chief PRO B.L. Yashwanth stated to the media that the staff did not ban the man from traveling. They simply asked him to put his shoes on before entering the platform.

He explained that carrying dirty shoes by hand is a hygiene risk. They can accidentally touch other passengers in crowded spaces. It also creates unpleasant odours in air-conditioned coaches. Metro rules require basic decorum for everyone’s comfort.

‘You Did Right’: Netizens

Social media users overwhelmingly sided with the Metro authorities. Many called the runner’s behaviour ‘foolish’ and ‘unfair’ to fellow commuters. One user noted that no one wants to stand next to sweaty, smelly shoes in a closed train. Another suggested that if he must go barefoot, he should use a sealed shoe bag. The consensus was clear: public spaces require shared responsibility.

The incident highlights a significant gap in civic sense. Most citizens praised the security team for their firm stance. They argued that public transport depends on mutual respect.

BMRCL’s move reminds travellers that “Namma Metro" belongs to the entire city. Personal comfort should never come at the cost of public hygiene. By enforcing these small rules, BMRCL keeps the commute pleasant for thousands. It is a simple rule for a better journey: finish your workout, wear your shoes, and then board.

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