Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) was established in 2002 under the then Chief Minister, Sheila Dixit's administration. Its operations marked 21 years on Sunday.
Delhi Metro marked the completion of 21 years of operations on Sunday. (File Photo)
New Delhi,UPDATED: Dec 24, 2023 19:25 IST
Delhi Metro commemorated its 21st anniversary on December 23, reflecting on a transformative journey since its inauguration by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2002.
A lifeline for national capital commuters, the Delhi rapid transit system started from a modest 8.4 km stretch with six stations. The rail network has evolved into a sprawling network encompassing 393 km and 288 stations.
RECORD-SETTER DMRC
On September 4, 2023, the Delhi Metro recorded an unprecedented 71.03 lakh passenger journeys,
Notably, the introduction of "CarbonLite Metro Travel" showcased the metro's commitment to sustainability. With the initiative, metro commuters are now informed about the carbon dioxide emissions saved during their metro rides compared to road-based transportation, fostering awareness of the impacts of sustainable public transport.
In the 21 years of operations, the Delhi Metro has witnessed a series of developments and vast expansion. With some 288 stations and 10 distinct lines, Delhi Metro is now the country's largest and busiest metro network. It is also the second oldest after Kolkata Metro.
In 2011, the United Nations lauded Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) for operating as the first rail network to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
2023 ACHIEVEMENTS OF DMRC
In 2023, the Delhi Metro achieved significant milestones. The Airport Express Line saw a speed increase from 90 to 120 km per hour, reducing commuting hours and enhancing efficiency. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Dwarka Sector 21 – Yashobhoomi Dwarka Sector 25 extension, providing metro connectivity to the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre.
New initiatives included National Common Mobility Cards, QR code-based ticketing, WhatsApp-based ticketing, and Paytm integration, offering speed and flexibility to residents of Delhi-NCR. The move, coupled with digital payments, saw the introduction of UPI payment at ticket vending machines and ticket counters.
On November 1, 2023, the Delhi Metro launched 'Momentum 2.0,' an innovative digital platform providing services such as Integrated QR Ticketing, e-shopping, digital lockers, smart utility payments, and last-mile connectivity options.
Published By:
Srishti Jha
Published On:
Dec 24, 2023
English (US) ·