Metro Rails in India
Active Metro Networks
Under Construction Metro Networks
Indian Metro system
The metro system in India is a rapidly growing mode of urban transportation that provides efficient and convenient travel options in major cities. The metro networks are designed to alleviate traffic congestion, reduce pollution, and enhance connectivity.
Urban rail transit encompasses various systems, including Rapid transit, Suburban rail, Monorail, and Trams. As of 2021, metro systems in fifteen major Indian cities collectively transported a staggering 2.63 billion passengers annually, solidifying the country as one of the busiest urban rapid transit hubs in the world in terms of ridership. With a combined length of 859 kilometers (534 miles), India's metro systems rank as the fourth longest operational networks globally.
History of Indian Metro System
The inception of India's urban rail transit system can be traced back to the establishment of the first-ever commuter rail, also known as suburban rail, in Mumbai on 16 April 1853. This significant milestone marked the commencement of passenger train services in the country. The inaugural journey commenced from Bori Bunder, now known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus in Mumbai, and reached Thane, covering a distance of 34 kilometers in just one hour and fifteen minutes. This pioneering achievement earned the distinction of being Asia's first suburban railway.
During the early 20th century, Tram systems emerged as a vital mode of transportation in India's four major cities: Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, and Mumbai. These Tram networks played a crucial role in fulfilling the intracity travel requirements of the local population. The advent of Trams began with the introduction of horse-drawn trams in Kolkata in 1873. Subsequently, Electric Trams made their debut in Chennai in 1895, followed by the cities of Mumbai, Kanpur, and Delhi.
However, between the years 1933 and 1964, Tram services were gradually discontinued in all Indian cities except Kolkata, where they continue to operate on the streets to this day, serving as a cherished heritage. At present, there are six Kolkata tram routes that are active. This is one of the initial routes laid in 1883 and is still operational.
Operational Metro system in India 2026
India’s metro network now spans over 1,000 km of operational lines across more than 20 cities, making it the third-largest globally. Major systems like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chennai, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad serve millions daily, with continued expansion driving urban mobility growth nationwide.
