Bengaluru: Skipping breakfast, sleepless nights, and packed morning trains are proving to be a troubling combination for young commuters on Bengaluru’s Namma Metro. In three months (Aug to Oct), Metro security personnel assisted nearly 130 passengers who felt dizzy or fainted during their journey.Surprisingly, more than 60% of them were under 30, according to official data. It’s an unusual trend that has turned Metro staff into ad-hoc first responders, often going far beyond their defined duties. A senior Metro official said: “Most incidents happen at the concourse or on the platforms. Our staff gives first aid immediately, and when required, we take passengers to the nearest hospital. In some cases, when ambulances were delayed due to traffic, our team even hired autos to rush them to care.” In those two months alone, about 30 commuters were hospitalised.Why are young passengers affected the most?A large share of the fainting spells was reported along the Purple Line, especially toward Whitefield, a corridor dominated by office-going youth. Doctors across Bengaluru confirm they frequently see young patients who collapse or experience giddiness while using public transport. Dr Ravindra HS, consultant physician and diabetologist at Sammprada Hospital, said: “When you combine an empty stomach, poor sleep, and the stress of standing in a packed trains, it can cause a sudden dip in blood pressure or sugar levels. Late-night socialising, irregular meals, and stress also leave the body exhausted even before the day begins.“These problems, however, can be easily fixed, doctors said. “Commuters can carry a mini rescue snack like a banana, a handful of nuts, or a couple of biscuits which can help maintain blood sugar and reduce the risk of giddiness. Dehydration is a major trigger for orthostatic hypotension (blood pressure dropping on standing) and fainting. Aim for 1.5–2 litres of fluid spread through the day; sip water before leaving and, if possible, carry a small bottle,” Dr N Khuda Baksh, general physician and internal medicine, Hosmat Hospital advised.Dr Ravindra added: “If someone has not slept well, they should avoid standing for long periods. They should look for a seat whenever possible, avoid sudden movements, and they should not lock their knees because that reduces blood flow to the brain. It also helps to practice slow, deep breathing, especially in packed Metro stations like Majestic, KR Pura, or Baiyappanahalli where anxiety and overcrowding can worsen dizziness.“Dr Baksh suggested, “At the first hint of giddiness, dim vision, nausea, sweating, or ringing in the ears, they should sit down on the floor if needed, lower their head, and sip water instead of trying to ‘push through’ the episode.”BoxQuick health tips for Metro usersAvoid skipping breakfastCarry a snack — banana, nuts, chikki, or a protein barBring a water bottle and sip throughout the commuteStand near poles for support, not at the doorsWear breathable clothing to avoid overheatingKeep leg muscles active; avoid standing for long time
