India has crossed an extraordinary milestone in its urban transport journey, now possessing the third-largest metro network globally, with over 1,000 kilometers of tracks. This remarkable achievement follows China and the United States in the size of metro networks. The inauguration of new metro stretches, including the Delhi Metro’s Magenta Line extension and the 13-kilometer Namo Bharat Corridor, marks a significant moment in India’s transition to modern urban mobility.
The newly opened 13-kilometer stretch of the Namo Bharat Corridor connects Sahibabad in Uttar Pradesh to New Ashok Nagar in Delhi. This extension not only brings enhanced connectivity but also shortens travel time dramatically, providing seamless access to various parts of the region. Anand Vihar, a crucial station on this corridor, offers rapid transit from Delhi to Meerut South, saving commuters up to 35 minutes on their daily commute.
The transformation of India’s metro network over the past decade is nothing short of impressive. Starting with just five cities in 2014, metro systems now operate in 23 cities, with plans to expand further. The number of states benefiting from metro services has also surged from five to 11. Daily ridership has risen from 28 lakh to over one crore passengers, showcasing the system’s importance in everyday urban life.
India’s metro revolution has accelerated under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, with metro tracks being extended at an average rate of 6 kilometers per month. Beyond just connecting cities, this expansion is transforming urban mobility, making it more sustainable and eco-friendly. India is not just relying on foreign technology but also producing homegrown solutions, including the “Make in India” driverless metro trains, contributing to the global metro market.
Indian metro expertise has also expanded beyond national borders, with projects underway in Bangladesh, and Indian companies consulting for metro systems in Jakarta and supplying metro coaches to countries like Canada and Australia. This marks India’s growing footprint in the global transportation sector.
The future of India’s metro systems looks brighter, as more lines are constructed, and the country continues to evolve as a leader in urban mobility. These developments promise not only to alleviate congestion but also to offer a more sustainable and efficient transport system for India’s rapidly growing urban population. As India makes strides in reshaping its cities, it sets a global example of how metro systems can revolutionize urban living.