New Delhi, March 13, 2025 : In a landmark development for urban transportation, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is on track to complete its ambitious Golden Line expansion by December 2025. Once operational, this expansion will cement Delhi Metro’s position as the world’s largest city metro system, surpassing major global networks like Shanghai Metro and Beijing Subway.
The Golden Line, a key component of Delhi Metro’s Phase IV expansion, is set to revolutionize connectivity across the National Capital Region (NCR), offering seamless travel options to millions of commuters while addressing the city’s growing traffic congestion and pollution challenges.
The Golden Line: A Game-Changer for Delhi
The Golden Line, spanning approximately 65 kilometers, will connect some of Delhi’s most densely populated and underserved areas. The line will feature 48 new stations, integrating with existing metro lines to create a comprehensive network that covers over 450 kilometers of track.
Key highlights of the Golden Line include:
- Aerocity to Tughlakabad Corridor: This stretch will enhance connectivity to the Indira Gandhi International Airport, boosting tourism and business travel.
- Janakpuri West to RK Ashram Marg: This segment will provide direct access to key commercial and residential hubs, reducing travel time by up to 40%.
- Maujpur to Majlis Park: This section will improve connectivity in northeast Delhi, a region that has historically lacked robust public transport options.
World’s Largest Metro System: A Global Milestone
With the completion of the Golden Line, Delhi Metro’s network will surpass 800 kilometers, making it the largest metro system in the world by route length. This achievement will place Delhi ahead of other major metro systems, including:
- Shanghai Metro (803 kilometers)
- Beijing Subway (727 kilometers)
- London Underground (402 kilometers)
“This expansion is not just about breaking records; it’s about transforming the way Delhiites travel,” said a senior DMRC official. “The Golden Line will reduce dependency on private vehicles, cut down travel time, and contribute to a greener, more sustainable city.”
Economic and Environmental Impact
The Golden Line is expected to have far-reaching economic and environmental benefits:
- Boost to Local Economy: Improved connectivity will spur economic activity in underserved areas, creating new opportunities for businesses and real estate development.
- Reduction in Traffic Congestion: By providing an efficient alternative to road transport, the metro will help decongest Delhi’s notoriously busy streets.
- Environmental Benefits: The shift from private vehicles to public transport is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 1.5 million tons annually, contributing to Delhi’s fight against air pollution.
Challenges and Innovations
While the Golden Line promises to be a transformative project, it has not been without challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic caused delays in construction, and land acquisition issues in certain areas have slowed progress. However, the DMRC has adopted innovative solutions to stay on track:
- Advanced Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs): These machines have been deployed to expedite underground construction while minimizing disruption to surface traffic.
- Green Construction Practices: The DMRC has prioritized sustainable construction methods, including the use of solar energy and recycled materials.
- Smart Metro Stations: The new stations will feature state-of-the-art amenities, including contactless ticketing, real-time passenger information systems, and energy-efficient lighting.
A Model for the World
Delhi Metro’s journey from its inception in 2002 to becoming the world’s largest metro system is a testament to India’s growing expertise in urban infrastructure. The Golden Line expansion is not just a milestone for Delhi but a model for other cities grappling with the challenges of urbanization.
As the December 2025 project approaches, all eyes are on the DMRC to deliver a network that will redefine urban mobility in one of the world’s most populous cities.
Author: Prakriti Parul
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