The urban landscape of the National Capital Region (NCR) is on the cusp of a major transformation. The Union Cabinet has officially approved a colossal ₹12,015 crore investment for the Delhi Metro expansion, a pivotal decision announced on Wednesday, December 24, 2025. This significant financial boost marks a crucial step in Phase V (also known as Phase-IV A) of the ambitious Delhi Metro project. The strategic aim is clear: extend metro connectivity, drastically reduce vehicular congestion, and foster sustainable urban transportation across the entire region.
Over the next three years, this substantial allocation will facilitate the addition of three brand-new corridors, spanning a combined 16 kilometers, and introduce 13 state-of-the-art stations. This initiative is set to propel the Delhi Metro network beyond the 400-kilometer mark, reinforcing its status as the lifeline of public transport in one of the world’s largest metropolitan areas and dramatically improving urban mobility for millions.
Key Corridors Driving the Delhi Metro Expansion
The newly sanctioned ₹12,015 crore project zeroes in on three vital corridors. Each has been meticulously planned to address specific connectivity gaps and significantly enhance the overall network’s efficiency. These corridors are integral to the next phase of the Delhi Metro expansion, promising improved accessibility for millions of daily commuters and making a substantial contribution to reducing vehicular congestion.
- Ramakrishna Ashram Marg to Indraprastha: This 9.9-kilometer corridor represents the largest segment of this approval, with an estimated expenditure of ₹9,570.4 crore. It is anticipated to significantly ease travel between central Delhi and key business districts.
- Aerocity to Airport Terminal-1: A shorter yet critical 2.3-kilometer link, this corridor, costing ₹1,419.6 crore, will provide seamless connectivity to one of the busiest airport terminals, greatly enhancing passenger convenience and reducing reliance on road transport.
- Tughlakabad to Kalindi Kunj: Spanning 3.9 kilometers and estimated at ₹1,024.8 crore, this corridor will further strengthen the network in South Delhi, efficiently connecting residential areas to crucial transport hubs.
Broader Vision and Financial Commitments for Delhi Metro Expansion
The commitment to the Delhi Metro expansion extends far beyond the recently approved Phase V (A) corridors. A broader governmental initiative underlines a holistic approach to comprehensively upgrade and extend the transit system.
This expansion isn’t just about connectivity; it’s also poised to deliver significant environmental benefits. Projections estimate a reduction of approximately 33,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions, contributing directly to cleaner air quality in the National Capital Region. This dedication to sustainable development highlights the multi-faceted advantages of investing in robust public transport infrastructure.
Complementing the Union Cabinet’s approval, the Delhi government has unequivocally demonstrated its support. It has substantially increased its transport department’s budget for 2025-26 by nearly 60%, allocating a formidable ₹9,110 crore. A significant portion of this, specifically ₹2,929 crore, is earmarked directly for Metro projects. This includes financial approval of ₹3,386.18 crore for three major Phase-IV corridors: Lajpat Nagar to Saket, Inderlok to Indraprastha, and Rithala to Kundli. Furthermore, nearly ₹2,700 crore in pending liabilities from earlier Metro phases have been cleared, ensuring the smooth progression of ongoing works. Construction on several Phase-IV sections is already underway, with some lines anticipated to become operational in the near future. The total length of Delhi Metro’s Phase 4 is projected to be 112.42 km with an estimated cost of Rs 24,948.65 crore, underscoring the long-term vision for urban mobility.
The approval of this ₹12,015 crore project for the Delhi Metro expansion signifies a monumental stride towards creating a more connected, efficient, and sustainable urban landscape in the National Capital Region. With new corridors, additional stations, and unwavering financial commitment from both the Union and Delhi governments, the Delhi Metro is set to further solidify its position as a world-class public transportation system. This crucial investment will address the growing needs of its populace, foster a greener future, and benefit millions of daily commuters while reducing the environmental footprint of one of India’s most vibrant cities.
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