DMRC to launch India’s First Three-Coach Train Corridor on Delhi Metro Phase 4

New Delhi, India (Metro Rail Today): The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is set to introduce India’s first metro corridor designed specifically for three-coach trains on the upcoming Lajpat Nagar–Saket G Block route. This initiative, part of Phase-IV of the Delhi Metro project, marks a significant step in the evolution of metro travel in the country, officials announced on Sunday.

The new corridor will stretch over eight kilometers, making it the second-smallest in the Delhi Metro network. It is designed to enhance last-mile connectivity and ensure seamless interchange with other existing metro corridors, further improving the city’s public transport infrastructure.

Key Features of the Lajpat Nagar–Saket G Block Corridor

• Three-Coach Trains: Unlike other metro lines that use four, six, or eight-coach trains, the Lajpat Nagar–Saket route will feature three-coach trains, developed specifically for short-distance urban travel. This unique configuration is expected to deliver cost-effective, agile solutions with better frequency and operational efficiency, while still accommodating a substantial number of daily commuters.

• Passenger Capacity: Each three-coach train will have a seating and standing capacity of approximately 900 passengers per trip, with around 300 passengers per coach. This will provide sufficient capacity for the expected flow of short-distance commuters.

• Optimized for Short-Distance Travel: The smaller, more efficient trains are designed for routes with lower passenger density, ensuring frequent services for short-distance travelers. The Peak Hour Peak Direction Traffic (PHPDT) estimate suggests that this new configuration will provide a comfortable commute without overcapacity issues.

• Strategic Stations: The corridor will feature eight strategically located stations from Lajpat Nagar to Saket G Block, improving access to both residential and commercial areas. The stations have been designed with platforms 74 meters in length, optimized for three-coach train operations.

The DMRC's decision to introduce three-coach trains on this route is a result of a realistic assessment of passenger demand, with an emphasis on maintaining economic sustainability while delivering high-quality urban transit. By focusing on the specific needs of short-distance commuters, the corridor aims to provide an effective solution for daily travel, reducing congestion and enhancing connectivity.

The construction of the corridor is underway following the foundation stone laying ceremony by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March 2024. The corridor is expected to be completed by 2028, with the new metro service promising to revolutionize the way people commute between Lajpat Nagar and Saket G Block.

This innovative approach to metro planning highlights DMRC's commitment to smart urban mobility solutions and sustainability. With the launch of this corridor, Delhi will take a step closer to transforming its public transport network to meet the needs of its growing population.