JICA signs ₹4,649 crore loan agreement for Delhi Metro Phase 4 Expansion

New Delhi, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant move towards strengthening urban infrastructure, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has signed a loan agreement worth 79,726 million Japanese Yen (approximately INR 4,649 crores) for the Delhi Mass Rapid Transport System Project (Phase 4 Additional Corridors) (I). This financial aid is part of the total project cost of 298,358 million Japanese Yen, reinforcing Japan’s commitment to India’s urban development.

The expansion of the Delhi Metro network under Phase 4 aims to enhance connectivity, reduce traffic congestion, and improve environmental sustainability in the National Capital Region (NCR). Delhi, plagued by rising air pollution and increasing travel demand, will greatly benefit from the additional metro corridors, making public transport more accessible and reducing reliance on private vehicles.

The Official Development Assistance (ODA) loan agreement was formalized between Ms. Manisha Sinha, Additional Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, and Mr. TAKEUCHI Takuro, Chief Representative of JICA India.

TAKEUCHI Takuro emphasized the importance of the metro expansion, stating, “The rapid urbanization and growing number of vehicles in Delhi have resulted in severe traffic congestion and environmental concerns. The Delhi Metro Phase 4 project is a crucial initiative to counter these challenges by providing a reliable and eco-friendly mass transit system. JICA remains committed to supporting India’s sustainable infrastructure development and improving the quality of life for Delhi’s residents.”

Key Highlights of the Delhi Metro Phase 4 Expansion

• Total Length: Approximately 47 km of new metro corridors

• Extensions: Expansion of Line 1 (Red Line) and Line 5 (Green Line)

• New Metro Line: Introduction of Line 11 to further improve connectivity

• Metro Stations: 39 new stations, including 9 underground stations, 1 at-grade station and 29 elevated stations

• Metro Depot: Establishment of a new metro depot for enhanced operations

• Technological Advancements:

  • Advanced electrical, signalling, and communication systems

  • Automatic fare collection for a seamless passenger experience

• Metro Cars Procurement: 178 new metro cars to accommodate growing commuter demand

• Consulting Services: Design review, construction supervision, and technology transfer to strengthen local expertise

The project is expected to directly benefit around 400,000 daily commuters by 2031 while indirectly improving accessibility for over 17 million residents in the NCR. By reducing vehicular congestion and promoting metro usage, the initiative is set to significantly lower carbon emissions by approximately 26,550 tons per year, contributing to Delhi’s long-term sustainability goals.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) will be responsible for executing, operating, and maintaining the expanded metro network. The project aligns with the Delhi Master Plan 2021 and Japan’s Development Cooperation Policy for India, emphasizing enhanced connectivity and low-carbon urban mobility solutions.

JICA has been a key partner in the evolution of the Delhi Metro since its inception, having previously provided ODA loans for Phases 1, 2, 3, and earlier sections of Phase 4. With this latest funding, JICA continues to play a pivotal role in India’s mass transit revolution.

As Delhi moves towards a more efficient and environmentally friendly public transportation system, the expansion of the metro under Phase 4 is set to be a game-changer, improving daily commutes and fostering sustainable urban growth in the region.

(Exchange rate: INR 1/- = JPY 1.71491/-)