New Delhi: Delhi Metro will run India’s first three-coach train corridor on the upcoming Lajpat Nagar to Saket G Block stretch of Phase IV.
This 8-km corridor with eight stations is the second smallest metro line in the metro network after the grey line (Dwarka-Dhansa bus stand), which is 5.4-km with four stations.
“Unlike most metro lines that use 4, 6, or 8-coach trains, this innovative 3-coach system has been developed to cater specifically to short-distance urban travel. The smaller train configuration will provide a cost-effective and agile solution, ensuring better frequency and operational efficiency while accommodating a substantial number of daily commuters,” said Anuj Dayal, principal executive director of corporate communications at Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). He added that this corridor is not just about reducing train length, it’s about optimising urban mobility with a future-ready, efficient and cost-conscious metro system.
This corridor, which will act as an extension of the Golden Line, will help in improving accessibility to key residential and commercial hubs in south Delhi. It will pass through Lajpat Nagar, Andrews Ganj, GK-1, Chirag Dilli, Pushpa Bhawan, Saket Court, Pushp Vihar, and Saket G Block.
With this line, Lajpat Nagar will become a triple interchange station with the pink and violet lines, while Chirag Dilli will interchange with the magenta line. Another interchange at Saket G Block will link the corridor to the airport.
Delhi Metro anticipates significant ridership in this new corridor, given its connectivity to densely populated and high-footfall areas. The projected daily ridership in 2025 is 60,000–80,000 passengers. However, the projected daily ridership is expected to be more than 1.20 lakh passengers with frequency enhancements by 2041. A coach will be able to accommodate around 300 passengers, and hence, 900 passengers per trip can travel in a three-coach train.
“The corridor’s peak hour peak direction traffic (PHPDT) estimates indicate a manageable load, ensuring a comfortable travel experience without overcapacity. Shorter trains mean quicker turnaround times, allowing for a highly efficient frequency cycle. As passenger numbers increase, train frequency can be gradually adjusted, ensuring that travel remains smooth, predictable, and congestion-free,” Dayal said.
He said a smaller train format means lower energy consumption per trip, making it an environmentally responsible and financially prudent decision. “By investing in a three-coach system, Delhi Metro is ensuring economic sustainability while still providing top-tier urban transit solutions,” the spokesperson added.
Under DMRC’s Phase IV expansion, three new corridors spanning 65km are being constructed — Janakpuri West to RK Ashram, Majlis Park to Maujpur, and Aerocity to Tughlakabad.
The 12.3-km corridor from Majlis Park to Maujpur (extension of the pink line) is expected to be ready by 2025.
The Aerocity to Tughlaqabad (golden line) and Janakpuri West to RK Ashram (extension of the magenta line) are to be ready by 2026.
However, the three new corridors were approved last year for Phase IV.
TOI had reported that tendering for the corridors will gather pace with DMRC achieving financial closure after Govt of India and Japan International Cooperation Agency sign a loan agreement.
