New Delhi: Anticipating a likely shift from road to Metro, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) will introduce 24 additional train trips using six additional trains starting Monday. The additional trips will be made every Monday and on days when required. DMRC said last-mile connectivity is available across 160 metro stations, currently serving around 100,000 passengers daily in the form of e-autos, e-rickshaws, bike taxis, cab aggregators, and bicycle rentals.
Capacity Expansion to Ensure Uninterrupted Service
“This capacity expansion aims to ensure uninterrupted service and efficient passenger management during increased passenger journeys. DMRC will be closely monitoring any surge in demand to take any action required to meet the demand,” said Anuj Dayal, principal executive director of corporate communications at DMRC. The move comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged people to use public transport over personal vehicles.
Additional Measures for Commuter Convenience
Apart from adding additional trips, DMRC is intensifying measures to improve commuter movement to handle additional passenger capacity by deploying extra staff. These measures include deploying additional security personnel, operating additional ticketing counters, activating spare door frame metal detectors (DFMDs) and baggage scanners, reducing waiting times at frisking points, and ensuring smoother passenger movement during peak periods.
“To ensure end-to-end commuter convenience, DMRC has developed an expansive last-mile ecosystem across 160 metro stations, currently serving approximately 100,000 passengers daily in the form of e-autos, e-rickshaws, bike taxis, cab aggregators, bicycle rentals, and smart door-to-door integrated journey planning via the DMRC Saarthi App. These measures are designed to bridge the critical gap between metro stations and final destinations while promoting green mobility solutions,” said Dayal.
Integration with DTC Buses and Parking Facilities
DTC is operating around 1,500 Devi buses, which are providing last-mile services at 52 metro stations. More Devi buses are progressively being introduced. To further encourage a shift from personal vehicle use to public transport, parking facilities are currently operational at 126 metro stations across Delhi-NCR, enabling commuters to conveniently park and continue journeys through metro services.
Hydrogen-Based Bus Service
Recently, DMRC with the support of IOCL has started a hydrogen-based bus service in the Central Vista area to provide last-mile services from metro stations to offices in that area.
“DMRC remains committed to supporting national priorities of reducing fuel dependency, promoting sustainable mobility, enhancing commuter convenience, and strengthening economic resilience,” said Dayal.
