Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has hailed the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) as a major force in the fight to protect the environment in the national capital. His statement underscores the critical role of mass rapid transit in a megacity grappling with severe air quality challenges.
A Vital Lifeline for a Megacity
Speaking on the significance of the network, the Chief Minister pointed to the sheer scale of Delhi's population and vehicular density. Nearly three crore (30 million) people reside in Delhi, and its roads are choked with lakhs of vehicles daily. In this context, he emphasized that the availability of a reliable, high-capacity Metro system is nothing short of a revolution for urban sustainability.
Combating Pollution Through Public Transport
The Delhi Metro, which began operations in 2002, has expanded into a vast network crisscrossing the National Capital Region (NCR). By providing a clean, efficient alternative to private cars and two-wheelers, it directly contributes to reducing tailpipe emissions. Every train journey potentially replaces dozens of individual vehicle trips, leading to a significant cumulative drop in pollutants like PM2.5 and nitrogen oxides. CM Kejriwal's comments, made on 17 December 2025, reinforce the government's view of the Metro as a cornerstone of its environmental and public health strategy.
The Road Ahead for Sustainable Mobility
The recognition from the highest level of the state government highlights the ongoing need to invest in and prioritize public transportation infrastructure. The Delhi Metro's success story is often cited as a model for other Indian cities. As the network continues to expand its reach, its role in saving the environment becomes even more pronounced. The statement serves as a reminder that tackling complex issues like air pollution requires systemic solutions, with robust mass transit being a key component.
With Delhi's air pollution remaining a persistent concern, especially during the winter months, the push for greater Metro ridership is likely to intensify. The government's acknowledgment positions the Delhi Metro not just as a convenience, but as an essential service for the city's ecological well-being and the health of its millions of inhabitants.
