DMRC plans to add 6 new metro lines and 120 km of track to reduce city traffic and carbon emissions.
New Routes and Connectivity
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced a comprehensive expansion plan that will reshape the urban transportation landscape of India’s capital. The project includes the addition of six new metro lines, totaling over 120 kilometers of track, to be completed by 2029. This ambitious plan aims to reduce the burden on Delhi’s congested roads, improve last-mile connectivity, and contribute to sustainable urban development.
The estimated budget for the expansion is ₹18,000 crore, which will be funded through a combination of central and state government contributions, international loans, and public-private partnerships. Major financial partners include the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), who have supported similar urban projects across Asia.
The six new lines are designed to improve access to some of the city’s fastest-growing zones. Areas such as Narela, Najafgarh, Rohini Extension, Greater Noida West, and Dwarka sub-sectors will benefit from better connectivity. This is expected to directly impact over 2 million daily commuters, offering them faster, safer, and cleaner travel alternatives. New interchange hubs are planned at strategic junctions to link these lines with existing corridors and bus terminals, enhancing the city’s integrated transport network.
One of the standout features of this expansion is the adoption of driverless metro train technology. These trains will operate using Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) systems, enabling them to function more frequently and with higher safety. Features like real-time system monitoring, AI-driven diagnostics, and regenerative braking will boost efficiency and reduce energy consumption by up to 30%.
Stations under this plan will feature modern designs with smart ticketing systems, facial recognition access gates, and facilities for differently-abled commuters. Sustainability is a key focus: each station will have solar rooftops, rainwater harvesting mechanisms, and EV charging points, in alignment with Delhi’s green mobility goals.
According to DMRC estimates, the expansion will lead to a significant reduction in carbon emissions—approximately 2.5 million tons annually—as more people opt for metro over private vehicles. This is crucial for Delhi, which consistently ranks among the world’s most polluted cities. Moreover, traffic congestion could drop by up to 15%, improving the city’s overall livability index.
From an economic standpoint, the project is expected to generate over 50,000 jobs across various phases, including construction, engineering, operations, and allied services. Many of these opportunities will be available through local subcontractors, offering employment to people in adjacent neighborhoods.
Community engagement has been central to the DMRC’s planning. Public consultations are being held in affected neighborhoods to gather input on route alignments and station placement. Special efforts are being made to ensure gender-sensitive infrastructure, such as well-lit platforms, dedicated women’s coaches, and improved CCTV surveillance.
Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with two high-priority corridors—Rithala–Narela and Dwarka–Najafgarh–Jharoda—expected to be operational by 2027. The rest of the lines will roll out in phases, with all six lines projected to be completed by late 2029.
Urban planners and civil society groups have praised the plan, calling it a vital step in Delhi’s transition to a smart, green megacity. As cities across India struggle with rapid urbanization and transport bottlenecks, Delhi’s metro expansion may serve as a blueprint for the future.