**Delhi Metro to Launch India’s First Three-Coach Metro Corridor**
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is preparing to unveil India’s inaugural metro corridor designed for three-coach train operations on the forthcoming Lajpat Nagar–Saket G Block route. This corridor, part of the Phase-IV expansion of the Delhi Metro project, will stretch over eight kilometers, making it the second-smallest corridor in the entire network.
The primary objective of this new line is to enhance last-mile connectivity and facilitate seamless transfers with existing metro corridors. Unlike traditional metro lines that utilize four, six, or eight-coach trains, this innovative corridor will feature three-coach trains specifically engineered for short-distance urban travel. This smaller train configuration is anticipated to be a cost-effective and agile solution, promoting improved frequency and operational efficiency while accommodating a substantial number of daily commuters.
The DMRC’s decision to implement three-coach trains stems from a thorough evaluation of passenger flow. While high-density routes necessitate longer trains, the Lajpat Nagar–Saket segment primarily serves short-distance travelers who require frequent and efficient services. The projected Peak Hour Peak Direction Traffic (PHPDT) for this corridor is designed to ensure a comfortable commuting experience without the risk of overcrowding.
The three-coach system aims to achieve economic sustainability while upholding high standards of urban transit quality. Each coach will have a seating and standing capacity of approximately 300 passengers, allowing a total capacity of around 900 passengers per trip for the three-coach train. The corridor will feature eight strategically positioned stations from Lajpat Nagar to Saket G Block, enhancing accessibility to key residential and commercial areas. The station platforms are designed to be 74 meters long, optimized for the operation of three-coach trains.
Construction for this project commenced following the foundation stone laying ceremony by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March 2024, with an expected completion date set for 2028.
**FAQ**
**What is the significance of the three-coach metro corridor?**
The three-coach metro corridor is significant as it enhances last-mile connectivity, caters to short-distance travelers, and promotes operational efficiency while maintaining economic sustainability.
