The Delhi Metro Network: An Overview
Delhi Metro is the largest and most advanced metro network in India
It covers 395 km with 289 stations across Delhi-NCR
The system connects Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Greater Noida, Faridabad, and Ghaziabad
Twelve lines, each color-coded, form the backbone of urban transport
The Pink Line is the longest at 59.2 km, while the Blue Line has the most stations
The network includes underground, elevated, and at-grade routes
History of Delhi Metro
The first section opened on 25 December 2002, on the Red Line
Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) manages the system
Expansion occurred in phases, with Phase 4 underway as of 2025
The network has grown rapidly, adding new lines and extensions each year
Delhi Metro has set benchmarks for safety, punctuality, and cleanliness
DMRC Metro Lines
| Line Name | From | To | Length (km) | Stations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red Line | Rithala | Shaheed Sthal (New Bus Adda) | 34.5 | 29 |
| Yellow Line | Samaypur Badli | Millennium City Centre, Gurugram | 49.0 | 37 |
| Blue Line | Dwarka Sector 21 | Noida Electronic City | 56.1 | 50 |
| Blue Line Branch | Yamuna Bank | Vaishali | 8.5 | 8 |
| Green Line | Kirti Nagar/Inderlok | Brig. Hoshiar Singh | 28.8 | 24 |
| Violet Line | Kashmere Gate | Raja Nahar Singh (Ballabhgarh) | 46.3 | 34 |
| Pink Line | Majlis Park | Shiv Vihar | 59.2 | 38 |
| Magenta Line | Krishna Park Extn. | Botanical Garden | 40.3 | 25 |
| Grey Line | Dwarka | Dhansa Bus Stand | 5.5 | 4 |
| Airport Express | New Delhi | Yashobhoomi Dwarka Sec-25 | 24.9 | 6 |
| Aqua Line | Noida | Greater Noida | 29.2 | 21 |
| Rapid Metro | Gurugram | Multiple Stops in Gurugram | 12.9 | 11 |
Metro Timings and Route Table
| Line | First Train | Last Train | Key Destinations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red Line | 5:00 AM | 11:30 PM | Rithala, Shaheed Sthal |
| Yellow Line | 5:00 AM | 11:30 PM | Samaypur Badli, Gurugram |
| Blue Line | 5:00 AM | 11:30 PM | Dwarka, Noida, Vaishali |
| Green Line | 5:30 AM | 11:00 PM | Kirti Nagar, Brig. Hoshiar Singh |
| Violet Line | 5:30 AM | 11:00 PM | Kashmere Gate, Ballabhgarh |
| Pink Line | 6:00 AM | 11:00 PM | Majlis Park, Shiv Vihar |
| Magenta Line | 6:00 AM | 11:00 PM | Botanical Garden, Janakpuri West |
| Grey Line | 6:00 AM | 10:30 PM | Dwarka, Dhansa Bus Stand |
| Airport Express | 4:45 AM | 11:30 PM | New Delhi, IGI Airport |
Navigating the Metro: Step-by-Step
- Enter the station via security check and baggage scan.
- Buy a token or use a smart card at the counter or vending machine.
- Check the network map for your route and platform.
- Follow signs to the correct platform for your train.
- Board the train, mind the gap, and keep your belongings safe.
- Listen for announcements about upcoming stations.
- For interchanges, follow signs to connecting lines.
- Exit at your destination and tap out at the gate.
Travel Tips for DMRC Passengers
- Use a smart card for faster entry and exit.
- Avoid peak hours (8–10 AM, 5–7 PM) for a comfortable ride.
- Women can use reserved coaches for safety.
- Eating, drinking, and smoking are not allowed inside trains.
- Keep your belongings close and be alert at all times.
- Download the DMRC app for route planning and live updates.
Features and Facilities
- All stations have lifts, escalators, and tactile paths for the visually impaired.
- Free drinking water and clean restrooms are available.
- Most stations offer free Wi-Fi and mobile charging points.
- CCTV surveillance and security guards ensure safety.
- Lost and found counters help recover lost items.
- Parking is available at many stations for cars and bikes.
Facts about Delhi Metro
- Average daily ridership is about 2.76 million
- Trains run every 2–3 minutes during peak hours
- The system uses both broad gauge and standard gauge trains
- 71 stations are underground, 179 are elevated, and 7 are at-grade
- There are 24 transfer stations across the network
Navigating Metro Stations
- Entry and exit points are clearly marked at every station.
- Information desks help with queries and directions.
- Ticket counters and vending machines are near the entrance.
- Signage is in Hindi and English for easy navigation.
- Platforms have display boards showing train arrival times.
- Emergency help points are available on every platform.
Nearby Attractions
- Chandni Chowk Station: Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Old Delhi markets.
- Rajiv Chowk Station: Connaught Place, Central Park, shopping arcades.
- Kashmere Gate Station: ISBT bus terminal, St. James’ Church.
- New Delhi Station: Railway station, Paharganj market.
- Lajpat Nagar Station: Lajpat Nagar market, Central Market.
- Akshardham Station: Akshardham Temple, Yamuna waterfront.
Commercial and Business Hubs
- Connaught Place: Accessible via Rajiv Chowk, major offices and banks.
- Cyber City Gurugram: Reachable via Yellow Line and Rapid Metro.
- Noida Sector 18: Blue Line, tech parks, malls, and offices.
- Nehru Place: Violet Line, IT hub, electronics market.
- Dwarka Sector 21: Blue Line, business centers, hotels.
Dining and Entertainment Nearby
- Rajiv Chowk: Cafes, restaurants, bars, and cinemas.
- Hauz Khas: Green and Yellow Lines, nightlife, eateries.
- Saket: Magenta Line, malls, food courts, PVR Cinemas.
- Karol Bagh: Blue Line, street food, shopping, old markets.
- Noida Sector 18: Blue Line, malls, food plazas, gaming zones.
Residential Properties Nearby
- Dwarka: Blue Line, large residential complexes.
- Noida Extension: Aqua Line, new housing societies.
- Rohini: Red Line, affordable apartments.
- Vaishali: Blue Line, gated communities.
- Gurugram: Yellow Line, premium apartments.
Hotels and Hospitality Nearby
- Aerocity: Airport Express, luxury hotels, business stays.
- Connaught Place: Rajiv Chowk, budget and premium hotels.
- Paharganj: New Delhi Station, backpacker hostels.
- Noida City Centre: Blue Line, business hotels.
- Saket: Magenta Line, five-star hotels and suites.
Markets and Shopping Attractions
- Sarojini Nagar: Pink Line, fashion street shopping.
- Lajpat Nagar: Violet and Pink Lines, ethnic wear, accessories.
- Karol Bagh: Blue Line, electronics, garments, jewelry.
- Dilli Haat: INA Station, crafts, food from all states.
- Janpath: Rajiv Chowk, handicrafts, souvenirs.
Metro Station Route Information
- Each station has a unique code and color for easy identification.
- Route maps are displayed at all stations and inside trains.
- Interchange stations link two or more lines for easy transfers.
- Announcements and display boards guide passengers at every step.
- Emergency exits and evacuation plans are clearly marked.
Connectivity
- Metro connects with Indian Railways at New Delhi, Anand Vihar, and Hazrat Nizamuddin.
- Major bus terminals like ISBT are linked via Kashmere Gate and Anand Vihar.
- Airport Express Line provides fast access to IGI Airport.
- Feeder buses and e-rickshaws offer last-mile connectivity from stations.
Recent Developments
- Phase 4 expansion is adding new lines and extending existing ones27.
- New stations are being built in outer Delhi and NCR towns25.
- Modern trains with driverless technology are being introduced.
- More stations now offer Wi-Fi and digital payment options.
- Focus on green energy with solar panels at many stations.
Reviews and Passenger Experience
- Metro is praised for cleanliness, punctuality, and safety.
- Commuters appreciate the affordable fares and smooth rides.
- Security presence is strong, making it safe for all, especially women.
- Real-time information and announcements are helpful.
- Some stations can get crowded during rush hours.
Facilities and Location
- All stations are accessible to differently-abled passengers.
- ATMs, food kiosks, and convenience stores are available.
- Restrooms and drinking water are provided at every major station.
- Many stations have parking lots for two-wheelers and cars.
- Location maps and area guides are displayed at exits.
Delhi Metro is a world-class transit system connecting the capital and its suburbs.
It is the preferred choice for millions, offering speed, safety, and comfort every day.
With ongoing expansion and modern features, it continues to set new standards in urban mobility.