By Chandan Singh | New Delhi | Page 3 News Worldwide
New Delhi(India): Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has unveiled an ambitious expansion of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), announcing plans for seven new corridors under Phase V (B) at the Metro’s 32nd Foundation Day ceremony.
Speaking as chief guest, Gupta said work under Phases IV and V is advancing swiftly, with groundwork in place to commence construction on the proposed corridors, aimed at further enhancing connectivity across the capital. She added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recently inaugurated two Metro corridors and laid foundation stones for three additional projects already in progress.
Hailing the Metro as Delhi’s “lifeline”, the Chief Minister said it has come to embody efficiency, discipline and public trust. “It is hard to imagine Delhi without the Metro,” she observed, applauding the workforce for upholding standards that have earned the system global recognition.
Since its inception in 1995, the DMRC network has expanded to 416 km, she noted. At present, it operates 343 trains across 303 stations, running more than 4,500 services daily and catering to over 6.5 million passengers. Gupta highlighted that complex engineering feats—including nearly 100 km of underground tunnelling—demonstrate the network’s technical prowess and strong management.
Addressing Delhi’s persistent pollution challenge, the Chief Minister stressed that robust public transport is central to sustainable urban mobility, with the Metro at its core. She added that efforts are also focused on improving last-mile connectivity and elevating passenger experience.
Gupta further noted that the Metro has earned carbon credits from the United Nations and contributed to reducing over 600,000 tonnes of carbon emissions, underlining its role in climate action. Emphasising fiscal discipline, she said investments are being deployed transparently with a long-term vision for a resilient transport system.
In a fresh social initiative, the Chief Minister proposed setting up “cloth banks” at Metro stations to encourage the recycling of used garments. The initiative, she said, could be linked with women’s self-help groups to generate livelihoods while promoting environmental sustainability.
Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs Tokhan Sahu, senior DMRC officials and members of the Metro workforce attended the ceremony.
