India’s Metro Rail Network expanding urban marvel
India’s metro rail system is a shining example of rapid urban development, now ranking as the third-largest metro network in the world, trailing only behind China and the United States.
Stretching over 1,000 kilometres, this extensive network has become a backbone for urban transportation in India.
The metro system’s growth has been extraordinary, especially over the last decade:
In 2014, the network spanned only 248 kilometres across 5 cities in 5 states.
But now, it operates in 23 cities across 11 states, tripling in size within ten years.
Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri emphasized last year that India is on track to overtake the United States and become the second-largest metro network globally within two to three years.
Here are the key milestones:
The Kolkata Metro inaugurated in 1984 marked the beginning of India’s metro journey. It is the first metro in India.
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation launched its first corridor on December 24, 2002, connecting Shahdara and Tis Hazari. It was inaugurated by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
On October 21, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated:
- A 13-km stretch of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Namo Bharat corridor.
- This Rs 4,600 crore project marks Delhi’s entry into the Namo Bharat high-speed rail network, enhancing connectivity between Delhi and Meerut with fast, reliable, and comfortable travel.
Future Expansion Plans
- New metro projects are underway to connect cities in Madhya Pradesh and other states.
- The government is prioritizing metro connectivity as a solution to urban transportation challenges.
The metro has become an integral part of the urban lifestyle, aiding millions of daily commuters across India.
India’s metro network symbolizes the country’s commitment to urban infrastructure and sustainability.
From its humble beginnings in Kolkata to its ambitious plans for the future, the metro system is transforming urban transit and setting global benchmarks.
Image Credit: WillaMissionary, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
You may also like
Image Reference: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:DelhiMetroYellowLine.JPG
Recent Posts
- Monsoon blues: Why you feel low and how to fight backHere’s why monsoon affects your mood, and what you can do about it.
- Why early EPF planning can make your retirement stress-freeEPF is not just about saving money; it's about giving yourself peace of mind.
- Walk-in interview for 14 specialist and GDMO posts in SAILSAIL provides a stable career, a supportive work culture, and access to modern medical facilities.
- Monsoon blues: Why you feel low and how to fight back
What’s new at WeRIndia.com
News from 700+ sources
WeRIndia – A News Aggregator
Visit werindia.com for all types of National | Business | World | Politics | Entertainment | Health related news and much more..