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MetroExpansion –  The Delhi government has approved a significant expansion of the Delhi Metro network, clearing Phase V(A) of the project in a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.

The newly sanctioned phase will add three metro corridors covering a total distance of 16 kilometres and include 13 stations across key parts of the capital. Officials stated that the project is expected to be completed by 2028 and is designed to improve connectivity while easing congestion in some of the city’s busiest areas.

Cabinet Approves Major Investment in Public Transport

According to the official statement, the overall cost of Phase V(A) has been estimated at Rs 12,014.91 crore. Of this amount, the Delhi government will contribute Rs 2,940.46 crore. The remaining funds are expected to come from other approved financing arrangements under the project framework.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta described the move as a long-term investment aimed at upgrading Delhi’s transport infrastructure. She said that expanding the metro network remains central to improving mobility standards and reducing pressure on the city’s road network.

Three New Corridors Planned Across Key Zones

The expansion includes three distinct routes: RK Ashram Marg to Indraprastha via Central Vista, Tughlakabad to Kalindi Kunj, and Aerocity to Indira Gandhi Domestic Terminal-1. Out of the 13 proposed stations, 10 will be constructed underground, while three will be elevated.

The longest stretch under this phase will run between RK Ashram Marg and Indraprastha. Spanning 9.913 kilometres, this corridor will feature nine stations and pass through the Central Vista area. It is projected to cost Rs 9,570.40 crore, with the Delhi government contributing Rs 2,337.24 crore.

Key stops along this route will include Shivaji Stadium, Central Secretariat, CCS Buildings, India Gate, War Memorial–High Court, Baroda House, Bharat Mandapam and Indraprastha. Officials estimate that nearly two lakh commuters could use this line daily, including around 60,000 employees working in major government offices and Kartavya Bhavan complexes located in the area.

Airport and Southern Delhi Connectivity Strengthened

The second approved corridor will connect Aerocity with Indira Gandhi Domestic Airport Terminal-1. Though shorter in length at 2.26 kilometres, the link is considered strategically important for airport connectivity. The project is estimated to cost Rs 1,419.64 crore, with Rs 351.86 crore to be provided by the Delhi government.

The third corridor, running from Tughlakabad to Kalindi Kunj, will cover 3.9 kilometres and include three stations. The cost for this segment has been pegged at Rs 1,024.87 crore, out of which the Delhi government will contribute Rs 251.36 crore.

Officials noted that both corridors are expected to improve access between residential neighbourhoods, commercial centres and key transit hubs, making daily travel more efficient for thousands of commuters.

Part of Broader Transport Vision

The government has positioned the expansion as a step towards its “7-C Vision” for mobility — focusing on creating a system that is common, connected, convenient, congestion-free, charged, clean and cutting-edge. Authorities said the metro project will encourage greater use of public transport and reduce reliance on private vehicles.

Chief Minister Gupta emphasised that improving public transport is essential for achieving environmental targets, including efforts toward net-zero emissions. She stated that expanding the metro network would contribute to lowering traffic congestion and curbing air pollution levels across the city.

The government also highlighted that the new corridors will provide seamless interchanges with the existing Delhi Metro network. This integration is expected to offer smoother transfers and shorten travel times, particularly for those commuting between administrative zones, airport facilities and residential areas.

With Phase V(A) now approved, preparatory work is expected to begin in accordance with project timelines. Officials maintained that the expansion reflects a continued commitment to building a modern, efficient and environmentally responsible urban transport system for the national capital.