New Delhi, 17 May (H.S.): Amid growing concerns over traffic congestion, rising fuel consumption, and increasing pollution levels, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has taken a major step to encourage commuters to opt for metro services instead of private vehicles. DMRC has announced that beginning May 18, 24 additional train trips will be operated every Monday through six extra trains. Additional services may also be introduced on other days if required.
According to DMRC, the current situation is expected to increase the shift of commuters from road-based transportation to metro services. In view of this anticipated rise in passenger traffic, special arrangements have been made to ensure commuter convenience and efficient crowd management. Additional security personnel will be deployed, more ticket counters will remain operational, and extra door-frame metal detectors along with baggage scanners will be activated. Special emphasis will also be placed on reducing waiting times at frisking points and ensuring smooth passenger movement during peak hours.
DMRC stated that the Delhi Metro has now emerged as the primary transportation lifeline of the Delhi-NCR region. The metro network offers seamless multimodal connectivity by directly linking railway stations, Inter-State Bus Terminals (ISBTs), airports, the Namo Bharat Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), Noida Metro, and Gurugram Rapid Metro services. This integrated connectivity is significantly reducing dependence on private vehicles and petroleum-based transportation.
The metro network also provides fast, safe, and convenient access to major destinations such as Chandni Chowk, Connaught Place, Cyber City, prominent educational institutions, and key tourist attractions. To facilitate smooth end-to-end commuting, last-mile connectivity services have been developed at 160 metro stations. These services include e-rickshaws, e-autos, bike taxis, cab services, and bicycle rental facilities. Through the DMRC Sarathi app, passengers can book metro tickets, auto-rickshaws, and bike taxis on a single integrated platform.
Recently, DMRC, in collaboration with Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), also launched a hydrogen-powered bus service in the Central Vista area. In addition, nearly 1,500 “Devi” buses operated by the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) are currently providing last-mile connectivity from 52 metro stations.
Furthermore, park-and-ride facilities are available at 126 metro stations, enabling commuters to park their vehicles and continue their journey via metro services. To promote digital ticketing, DMRC has introduced QR code ticketing, National Common Mobility Cards (NCMC), WhatsApp ticketing, and integration with platforms such as Paytm, PhonePe, Amazon, and IRCTC.
DMRC Principal Executive Director Anuj Dayal stated that the organization remains continuously committed to promoting sustainable urban transportation, conserving fuel, and providing passengers with a safe, efficient, and comfortable travel experience.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
