Delhi Metro adds 24 extra trips every Monday from May 18 to cut private vehicle use
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on Sunday, 18 May 2025, announced a comprehensive package of measures to strengthen public transport across the Delhi-NCR network, including 24 additional train trips every Monday starting 18 May, deployed through six extra trains. The move is aimed at reducing dependence on private, petroleum-based vehicles and advancing sustainable urban mobility.
Key Operational Changes
The 24 additional Monday trips will be introduced from 18 May onwards, with the DMRC stating that supplementary services may be rolled out on other days as well, subject to passenger demand. The corporation said it is fully prepared to absorb any surge in footfall and will monitor travel patterns in real time to ensure uninterrupted operations.
To ease passenger movement during peak hours, the DMRC is deploying additional security personnel, opening more ticket counters, activating spare door frame metal detectors (DFMDs) and baggage scanners, and taking steps to cut waiting time at frisking points.
Integrated Connectivity Across Delhi-NCR
The DMRC underlined its role as a hub of integrated urban transport, highlighting seamless connections to railway stations, Interstate Bus Terminals (ISBTs), airport terminals, the Namo Bharat Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), the Noida Metro, and the Rapid Metro in Gurugram. The network also links commercial centres, government offices, educational institutions, and tourism landmarks across the region.
'From Chandni Chowk and Connaught Place to Cyber City, educational hubs and iconic landmarks, Delhi Metro continues to provide comprehensive urban accessibility across Delhi-NCR,' the DMRC said in an official statement.
First and Last-Mile Ecosystem
Across 160 Metro stations, the DMRC has built a first-mile and last-mile connectivity ecosystem — comprising e-autos, e-rickshaws, bike taxis, cab aggregators, and bicycle rentals — that benefits nearly one lakh passengers daily. The corporation's DMRC Saarthi App integrates Metro ticketing and last-mile booking on a single digital platform.
In a recent initiative, the DMRC — with support from Indian Oil Corporation Limited — launched hydrogen-based bus services in the Central Vista area to bridge the gap between Metro stations and government offices. Around 1,500 Devi buses operated by the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) are currently providing feeder services at 52 Metro stations, with more buses to be added progressively.
Digital Ticketing and Parking
The DMRC highlighted its suite of digital ticketing options: QR-code tickets, National Common Mobility Cards (NCMC), WhatsApp-based ticketing, and integrations with Paytm, PhonePe, Amazon, and IRCTC, as well as services through the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). Parking facilities are operational at 126 Metro stations to support 'park and ride' commuting and encourage the shift from private vehicles.
With national priorities increasingly aligned toward energy security and emission reduction, the DMRC's latest push signals an intent to make Metro travel the default choice for Delhi-NCR commuters — and the real test will be whether the Monday surge in ridership sustains through the week.