Explore the map of Delhi Metro, inaugurated in 2002, is a state-of-the-art rapid transit system serving the National Capital Region (NCR) of India. Spanning over 389 kilometres with 285 stations, it is one of the largest and busiest metro networks globally. The system significantly reduces travel time, serving an average daily ridership of 2.7 million passengers. The Delhi Metro is known for its punctuality, safety, and eco-friendly operations, incorporating modern technology and infrastructure to provide a reliable and efficient public transport solution.
Explore DMRC map to see New Delhi Metro route map of this MRT (mass rapid transit) system serving Delhi and its satellite cities of Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Noida, Gurgaon, Ballabhgarh and, Bahadurgarh in the National Capital Region of India.
Delhi Metro Network
Line No.
Line Name
Opened on
Last Extension
Length in km
No. of Stations
Rolling Stock
Starts from
Ends at
Track Gauge in mm
1
Red Line
25 December 2002
9 March 2019
34.55
29
31 trains, 219 coaches
Shaheed Sthal
Rithala
1676
2
Yellow Line
20 December 2004
10 November 2015
49.02
37
54 trains, 429 coaches
Samaypur Badli
Millennium City Centre
1676
3
Blue Line
31 December 2005
9 March 2019
56.11
50
60 trains, 480 coaches
Noida Electronic City
Dwarka Sector 21
1676
4
Blue Line
7 January 2010
14 July 2011
8.51
8
60 trains, 480 coaches
Vaishali
Dwarka Sector 21
1676
5
Green Line
3 April 2010
24 June 2018
28.78
24
20 trains, 80 coaches
Inderlok
Brigadier Hoshiyar Singh City Park
1435
5
Green Line
27 August 2011
-
28.78
24
20 trains, 80 coaches
Kirti Nagar
Brigadier Hoshiyar Singh City Park
1435
6
Violet Line
3 October 2010
19 November 2018
46.34
34
37 trains, 220 coaches
Kashmere Gate
Raja Nahar Singh Ballabhgarh
1435
-
Airport Express Line
23 February 2011
17 September 2023
22.91
7
6 trains, 36 coaches
New Delhi
Yashobhoomi Dwarka Sector 25
1435
7
Pink Line
14 March 2018
6 August 2021
59.24
38
33 trains, 196 coaches
Majlis Park
Shiv Vihar
1435
8
Magenta Line
25 December 2017
29 May 2018
37.46
25
24 trains, 144 coaches
Botanical Garden
Janakpuri West
1435
9
Grey Line
4 October 2019
18 September 2021
5.19
4
3 trains, 17 coaches
Dwarka
Dhansa Bus Stand
1435
Delhi Metro
The Delhi Metro, a flagship rapid transit system in the National Capital Region (NCR) of India, stands as a testament to modern urban transportation. Inaugurated in 2002, the Delhi Metro has revolutionised public transport in one of the world's most populous cities, offering a safe, reliable, and efficient means of commuting.
Historical Background and Development
The conception of the Delhi Metro dates back to the early 1990s when the burgeoning population and escalating traffic congestion in Delhi necessitated a robust mass transit solution. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) was established in 1995, with E. Sreedharan appointed as its first Managing Director. Construction began in 1998, and the first line, the Red Line, was inaugurated on 24 December 2002, covering 8.5 kilometres from Shahdara to Tis Hazari.
Network and Expansion
As of 2023, the Delhi Metro network spans over 389 kilometres, with 285 stations across 12 colour-coded lines, including extensions into neighbouring cities like Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurgaon, and Faridabad. This extensive network has made it one of the largest metro systems globally. Key lines include:
Red Line: Dilshad Garden to Shaheed Sthal (Ghaziabad)
Yellow Line: Samaypur Badli to HUDA City Centre (Gurgaon)
Blue Line: Dwarka Sector 21 to Noida Electronic City/Vaishali
Green Line: Inderlok to Brigadier Hoshiar Singh (Bahadurgarh)
Violet Line: Kashmere Gate to Raja Nahar Singh (Ballabhgarh)
Magenta Line: Janakpuri West to Botanical Garden (Noida)
Pink Line: Majlis Park to Shiv Vihar
Ridership and Operations
The Delhi Metro serves an average daily ridership of approximately 2.7 million passengers, a figure that underscores its critical role in urban mobility. The system operates with remarkable punctuality, maintaining an on-time performance rate of over 99%. Trains run at intervals of 2 to 5 minutes during peak hours, ensuring minimal waiting time for passengers.
Technology and Infrastructure
The Delhi Metro is equipped with advanced technology and infrastructure to ensure safety, efficiency, and convenience. Key features include:
Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) System: Utilising smart cards and tokens for seamless entry and exit.
Train Control and Signalling System: Incorporating advanced signalling technology for precise train movements and safety.
Eco-friendly Initiatives: The metro is known for its green initiatives, including solar power installations and regenerative braking systems that conserve energy.
Accessibility: Stations and trains are designed to be accessible to differently-abled passengers, with features like elevators, escalators, tactile paths, and designated seating.
Environmental and Social Impact
The Delhi Metro has significantly reduced the city's carbon footprint by providing an eco-friendly alternative to road transport. It is estimated that the metro prevents the emission of over 6.3 lakh tonnes of CO2 annually by reducing vehicular traffic. Additionally, the metro has alleviated congestion on Delhi’s roads, contributing to smoother traffic flow and reduced travel times.
Economic and Urban Development
The Delhi Metro has spurred economic growth and urban development along its corridors. Property values near metro stations have surged, and commercial activities have flourished. The metro has also generated employment opportunities, both directly within the DMRC and indirectly through ancillary services and businesses.
Future Prospects
The DMRC continues to expand the network to meet the growing demands of the NCR. Upcoming projects include:
Phase IV Expansion: Adding over 100 kilometres of new lines, extending existing lines, and constructing new corridors to enhance connectivity.
Integration with Other Transport Modes: Plans to integrate the metro with buses, suburban rail, and other transport modes for a seamless commuting experience.
History
The history of the Delhi Metro is a remarkable tale of urban transformation, driven by necessity and realised through meticulous planning and execution. From its conception to its current status as a world-class transit system, the Delhi Metro exemplifies innovation and efficiency in public transportation.
Early Conception and Need
In the late 20th century, Delhi faced severe transportation challenges due to rapid urbanisation and population growth. The city's road network was overwhelmed by traffic congestion, pollution levels were rising, and public transport was inadequate to meet the demands of millions of daily commuters. The need for a reliable, efficient, and sustainable mass transit system became increasingly apparent.
Establishment of DMRC
In 1995, the Government of India and the Government of Delhi established the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) with the mandate to develop a metro system for the city. E. Sreedharan, a distinguished engineer known for his work on the Konkan Railway, was appointed as the Managing Director of DMRC. His leadership and vision were instrumental in the successful implementation of the project.
Phase I (1998–2006)
Construction of the first phase began in October 1998. This phase aimed to create a network of 65 kilometres, including the Red Line, Yellow Line, and Blue Line. The first section of the Red Line, covering 8.5 kilometres from Shahdara to Tis Hazari, was inaugurated on 24 December 2002. The successful completion of this section marked the beginning of a new era in Delhi's transportation history.
The Yellow Line, connecting Vishwa Vidyalaya to Kashmere Gate, and the Blue Line, linking Dwarka to Barakhamba Road, were also completed during this phase. By 2006, Phase I was fully operational, providing a robust backbone for the city's transit needs.
Phase II (2006–2011)
Phase II aimed to expand the network to 190 kilometres, incorporating additional lines and extending existing ones. This phase included the construction of the Green Line, Violet Line, and further extensions of the Red, Yellow, and Blue lines.
One of the most significant achievements of Phase II was the inauguration of the Airport Express Line in 2011. This line connected New Delhi Railway Station to Indira Gandhi International Airport, providing a swift and convenient mode of transport for air travellers.
Phase III (2011–2021)
Phase III focused on further expanding the network to 389 kilometres, with an emphasis on increasing connectivity to the National Capital Region (NCR). This phase included the introduction of the Pink Line and Magenta Line, as well as extensions to existing lines.
The Pink Line, covering 59 kilometres, is notable for its ring-like structure, connecting key areas such as Mukundpur, Lajpat Nagar, and Shiv Vihar. The Magenta Line, spanning 38 kilometres, links Janakpuri West to Botanical Garden in Noida, significantly reducing travel time between the western and eastern parts of the city.
Technological Advancements and Innovations
Throughout its development, the Delhi Metro has embraced advanced technology and innovations to enhance operational efficiency and passenger experience. Key features include:
Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) System: Implemented across all stations, facilitating seamless entry and exit for passengers using smart cards and tokens.
Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) System: Employed on newer lines to enable precise train movements and reduce intervals between trains.
Regenerative Braking: Adopted in metro trains to conserve energy by converting kinetic energy into electrical energy during braking.
Environmental Impact
The Delhi Metro has been a pioneer in implementing eco-friendly practices. It was the first metro system in the world to earn carbon credits for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The metro's operations prevent the emission of over 6.3 lakh tonnes of CO2 annually by reducing vehicular traffic. Solar panels installed on metro stations and depots contribute to the system's renewable energy usage.
Social and Economic Impact
The Delhi Metro has had a profound impact on the city's social and economic fabric. It has provided a reliable and affordable mode of transport for millions of commuters, reducing travel time and enhancing productivity. The metro has also stimulated economic growth along its corridors, leading to increased property values and commercial activities.
Future Prospects
The DMRC continues to expand the network under Phase IV, which aims to add over 100 kilometres of new lines and extensions. This phase includes corridors such as Tughlakabad to Aerocity, Janakpuri West to R.K. Ashram, and Mukundpur to Maujpur.
Expansion of Delhi Metro
The expansion of the Delhi Metro has been a monumental endeavour, transforming the National Capital Region (NCR) into a well-connected urban landscape. Since its inception, the Delhi Metro has undergone several phases of expansion, each significantly enhancing its reach and capacity. This development has not only improved public transportation but also contributed to the economic growth and environmental sustainability of the region.
Phase I (1998–2006)
The first phase of the Delhi Metro laid the foundation for a modern urban transit system in Delhi. Covering 65 kilometres, this phase included the construction of the Red Line, Yellow Line, and Blue Line. Key milestones during this phase included:
Red Line: Shahdara to Tis Hazari (8.5 km)
Yellow Line: Vishwa Vidyalaya to Central Secretariat (16.4 km)
Blue Line: Dwarka to Barakhamba Road (22.8 km)
By 2006, Phase I was completed, providing a robust backbone for the city's transit needs and setting the stage for further expansion.
Phase II (2006–2011)
Phase II aimed to expand the network to 190 kilometres, incorporating new lines and extending existing ones. This phase included significant developments such as:
Green Line: Inderlok to Mundka (18.6 km)
Violet Line: Central Secretariat to Badarpur (20.2 km)
Blue Line Extension: Barakhamba Road to Noida City Centre (13.1 km)
One of the most notable achievements of Phase II was the inauguration of the Airport Express Line in 2011. This line, spanning 22.7 kilometres, connected New Delhi Railway Station to Indira Gandhi International Airport, providing a swift and convenient mode of transport for air travellers.
Phase III (2011–2021)
Phase III focused on further expanding the network to 389 kilometres, with an emphasis on increasing connectivity to the NCR. Major additions during this phase included:
Pink Line: Majlis Park to Shiv Vihar (59 km)
Magenta Line: Janakpuri West to Botanical Garden (38.2 km)
Extensions: Expansion of existing lines such as the Yellow Line from Jahangirpuri to Samaypur Badli (4.4 km)
The Pink Line, with its ring-like structure, connected key areas such as Mukundpur, Lajpat Nagar, and Mayur Vihar, enhancing intra-city connectivity. The Magenta Line significantly reduced travel time between the western and eastern parts of Delhi, linking important residential and commercial zones.
Phase IV (2020–2026)
Phase IV, currently underway, aims to add over 100 kilometres of new lines and extensions, further integrating the metro network with the NCR. Key projects under this phase include:
Tughlakabad to Aerocity: A 20.2-kilometre line that will enhance connectivity to the southern parts of Delhi and the airport.
Janakpuri West to R.K. Ashram: A 28.9-kilometre extension improving access to central Delhi.
Mukundpur to Maujpur: A 12.5-kilometre line that will complete the ring formed by the Pink Line, providing seamless connectivity around the city.
Technological and Environmental Innovations
Throughout its expansion, the Delhi Metro has incorporated advanced technologies and sustainable practices. Key innovations include:
Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) System: Used on newer lines to enhance operational efficiency and reduce intervals between trains.
Regenerative Braking: This system captures kinetic energy during braking and converts it into electrical energy, improving energy efficiency.
Solar Power: Solar panels installed on stations and depots generate renewable energy, reducing the carbon footprint of the metro system.
The Delhi Metro was the first in the world to receive carbon credits for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It prevents the emission of over 6.3 lakh tonnes of CO2 annually by reducing the reliance on road transport.
Social and Economic Impact
The expansion of the Delhi Metro has had profound social and economic impacts:
Employment: The construction and operation of the metro have generated numerous jobs, contributing to the local economy.
Property Values: Areas surrounding metro stations have seen significant increases in property values and commercial activities.
Commuter Convenience: The metro has drastically reduced travel time for millions of commuters, enhancing productivity and quality of life.
Future Prospects
The future of the Delhi Metro looks promising, with ongoing projects and plans for further expansion. The integration with other modes of transport, such as buses, suburban rail, and the upcoming Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), will create a seamless and efficient transportation network in the NCR.
