The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) announced plans to introduce 24 additional train trips every Monday starting May 18, 2026, with similar arrangements potentially extending to other days based on passenger demand. According to the latest official statement from ANI, the initiative involves deploying six extra trains specifically on Mondays to handle increased passenger footfall and ensure smooth operations during peak travel periods. Anuj Dayal, Principal Executive Director, Corporate Communications, DMRC, stated that the corporation is "anticipating a likely shift from road to Metro in the extant scenario" and will introduce 24 additional train trips from 06 additional trains every Monday starting from May 18, 2026 and on other days, as and when required. The corporation stated that passenger demand will be monitored closely, with further steps to be implemented as required to handle the additional passenger capacity and improve commuter movement during peak periods.
To manage higher commuter volumes, the DMRC will deploy additional security personnel, open extra ticket counters, activate spare door frame metal detectors and baggage scanners, and reduce waiting time at frisking points. As reported by ANI, the corporation is intensifying measures for enhanced security and passenger flow to ensure uninterrupted service and efficient passenger management during increased passenger journeys. The DMRC will be closely monitoring any surge in demand to take any action required to meet the passenger requirements, with the corporation deploying additional ticket counter shifts where required and expanding the deployment of customer facilitation staff. The metro network serves as a critical component of integrated transport connectivity, with stations linked to railway stations, interstate bus terminals, airport terminals, Namo Bharat Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), Noida Metro and Rapid Metro Gurugram. The network provides access to major commercial centers including Connaught Place, Chandni Chowk, Cyber City, Hauz Khas, Nehru Place and key university campuses.
For advanced digital ticketing and customer facilitation, the DMRC has adopted multiple digital solutions to simplify access, reduce dependency on physical counters, and avoid queuing at stations. According to ANI, these digital channels include QR code tickets, National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), WhatsApp ticketing, integrations with Paytm, PhonePe, Amazon, and IRCTC, as well as the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). The DMRC Metro Saarthi App now offers a fully integrated travel platform, allowing commuters to book Metro tickets, Auto-rickshaws, Bike taxis, and smart door-to-door services, ensuring first-mile, last-mile, and metro connectivity all through a single transaction interface. The corporation emphasized that these measures are designed to bridge the critical gap between metro stations and final destinations while promoting green mobility solutions and reducing dependency on private vehicles.
According to ANI reports, approximately 100,000 passengers use last-mile connectivity services including e-autos, e-rickshaws, bike taxis, cab aggregators and bicycle rentals daily across 160 metro stations. The DMRC's 'Saarthi App' offers integrated journey planning and allows commuters to book metro tickets and last-mile transport services through a single platform. The corporation has also introduced hydrogen-powered bus services in the Central Vista area with support from Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) to improve last-mile connectivity between metro stations and government offices. Recently, the DMRC introduced an integrated hydrogen-powered shuttle bus service in Delhi's Central Vista area, providing last-mile connectivity between Central Secretariat and Seva Teerth Metro stations and government offices in the area. Indian Oil Corporation Limited continues to support India's Net Zero ambitions through green energy innovation and cleaner mobility solutions, with hydrogen-powered buses being a step towards reducing emissions and building a more sustainable public transport ecosystem.
As reported by ANI, around 1,500 Devi buses operated by the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) currently provide feeder services at 52 metro stations, with more buses expected to be added progressively. The metro network offers parking facilities at 126 stations across Delhi-NCR under the 'park and ride' initiative to encourage commuters to combine personal and public transport. The parking facilities enable commuters to park their vehicles and continue journeys through metro trains, providing an integrated transport solution that enables commuters to move conveniently between multiple transport systems and reduces reliance on private vehicles. The network's accessibility extends to major commercial centers, government offices, educational institutions, corporate hubs and tourist destinations across Delhi-NCR, making daily commuting easier for office-goers, students and tourists.
According to ANI reports, the move comes as the Delhi government intensifies campaigns such as 'Monday Metro' and 'No Vehicle Day' to promote fuel conservation and reduce dependence on petroleum-based transport. Recently, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta had urged citizens to increasingly adopt public transport and indigenous products as part of broader sustainability and economic resilience efforts. The DMRC stated that the measures are part of its broader commitment towards promoting sustainable and environmentally responsible urban transport solutions in the national capital region. The initiative aims to strengthen mass transit systems and improve urban mobility amid growing emphasis on energy security, environmental sustainability and reduced dependence on petroleum-based transport, with the corporation calling Delhi Metro a cornerstone of India's sustainable urban transport future. The move aligns with India's Net Zero ambitions and supports the transition to cleaner mobility solutions through green energy innovation and sustainable public transport ecosystems.
