Delhi Metro Phase V expansion approved by Union Cabinet with three new corridors connecting key areas, including IGI Airport. Learn about stations, cost, and benefits for commuters.
Union Cabinet Approves Three New Corridors in Delhi Metro Phase V (A) – A Comprehensive Current Affairs Article
Introduction: Cabinet Greenlights Major Metro Expansion
The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recently given approval to three new metro corridors under the Delhi Metro Phase V (A) project, marking a significant push to expand urban mass transit in India’s capital region. This approval comes as part of the Government’s broader strategy to improve public transport connectivity, ease traffic congestion, and promote cleaner urban mobility in Delhi and its surrounding areas.
What Is Delhi Metro Phase V (A)?
Under the newly approved initiative, Phase V (A) of the Delhi Metro project is set to add 16.076 kilometers of metro line at an estimated cost of ₹12,014.91 crore. The expansion includes 13 new metro stations, with 10 underground and 3 elevated, strategically designed to connect key commercial and residential hubs of the capital.
The Three New Corridors Approved
The Union Cabinet has sanctioned three distinct corridors under Phase V (A):
- R.K. Ashram Marg – Indraprastha Corridor
This 9.913 km corridor is an extension of the Botanical Garden–R.K. Ashram Marg line. It will provide enhanced metro access to Central Delhi and significant landmarks, including office complexes and government offices. - Aerocity – IGI Airport Terminal 1 Corridor
With a length of 2.263 km, this extension of the Aerocity–Tughlakabad corridor will directly connect the metro to the domestic terminal at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. This will benefit airport travelers and staff alike. - Tughlakabad – Kalindi Kunj Corridor
Covering 3.9 km, this extension will improve connectivity between South Delhi areas such as Tughlakabad, Saket, and Kalindi Kunj, further integrating transport access in the region.
Funding and Strategic Importance
The project’s funding will be sourced collaboratively by the Government of India, the Government of Delhi, and international funding agencies. These expansions are part of a phase-wise strategy to progressively grow the metro network beyond its current limits and meet the mobility demands of Delhi’s ever-increasing population.
Benefits to Commuters and the City
The new corridors will significantly reduce travel time, alleviate traffic congestion on Delhi roads, and promote eco-friendly transport by easing vehicular emissions. This expansion is expected to support Delhi’s transport infrastructure as passenger demand continues to grow.
Future of Metro Network in Delhi
Once completed, the Phase V (A) project will take the total Delhi Metro network size beyond 400 kilometers, strengthening its role as one of the largest metro systems in the world. This expanded network will improve connectivity not just within the capital but will also benefit adjoining regions and provide smoother intercity transit options.
Why This News Is Important for Government Exams
Relevance to Syllabus and Exam Patterns
This news is vital for students preparing for government exams such as SSC, UPSC (IAS/IPS), Railway exams, Banking, Defence exams, and State PSCs, because it touches on key topics under National Infrastructure Development, Urban Mobility, Transport Policies, and Government Initiatives. Questions about recent metro expansions, urban connectivity projects, and their socio-economic impact are frequently asked in both prelims and mains exams of UPSC and other competitive tests.
Urban Development and Public Policy
Candidates should understand how public policy decisions such as this affect urban planning, economic growth, and employment generation. Expanding metro connectivity enhances efficiency in public transportation and contributes to sustainable urban development—a key theme in General Studies papers.
Current Affairs and Government Initiatives
This represents a major government initiative addressing traffic congestion, air pollution, and commuter convenience—three significant challenges of modern Indian cities. Exam questions often explore the implications of such projects on quality of life and environmental outcomes.
Budget and Funding Understanding
Candidates should note how such large-scale projects are funded through central and state government collaboration and international assistance—important for economics, polity, and governance topics. adda247
Historical Context: Delhi Metro’s Journey and Expansion
Origins and Growth of Delhi Metro
The Delhi Metro project was conceptualized in the late 1990s and launched in 2002 to tackle Delhi’s burgeoning transport demands. Over the years, it has expanded in multiple phases—Phase I through Phase IV—integrating major residential, commercial, and peripheral districts of the National Capital Region (NCR).
Previous Phases and Connectivity
Earlier phases extended connectivity to adjoining states like Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, making metro travel accessible beyond Delhi’s core. For example, the Phase-IV project itself includes corridors to areas such as Rithala-Kundli and connections with nearby towns.
Impact on Urban Mobility
The continuous growth of the metro network has played a key role in reducing traffic congestion, cutting emissions, and offering reliable transport for millions of daily commuters. Expansions also aim to link new economic zones, community hubs, and emerging residential regions.
Policy Shifts in Public Transport
Delhi Metro’s Progressive phases reflect India’s policy emphasis on sustainable infrastructure and smart city planning—highlighted repeatedly in national transport and urban development strategies. The Tribune
Key Takeaways from “Union Cabinet Approves Three New Corridors in Delhi Metro Phase V (A)”
| S. No | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1 | Union Cabinet approves three new corridors under Delhi Metro Phase V (A) worth ₹12,014.91 crore. |
| 2 | Phase V (A) will add 16.076 km of metro line and 13 new stations (10 underground, 3 elevated). |
| 3 | Corridors include R.K. Ashram Marg–Indraprastha, Aerocity–IGI Airport Terminal 1, and Tughlakabad–Kalindi Kunj. |
| 4 | Initiative aims to boost connectivity to Central Delhi, South Delhi, and Domestic Airport. |
| 5 | Expansion will help reduce congestion, travel time, and pollution while enhancing public transport efficiency. |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the new corridors approved under Delhi Metro Phase V (A)?
The Union Cabinet approved three new corridors: R.K. Ashram Marg – Indraprastha, Aerocity – IGI Airport Terminal 1, and Tughlakabad – Kalindi Kunj, totaling 16.076 km with 13 new stations.
2. How many stations will be constructed in Phase V (A)?
A total of 13 new stations are planned, out of which 10 will be underground and 3 will be elevated.
3. What is the estimated cost of Delhi Metro Phase V (A)?
The project is estimated to cost ₹12,014.91 crore.
4. How will the Aerocity – IGI Airport Terminal 1 corridor benefit commuters?
This 2.263 km corridor will directly connect the metro to the domestic terminal of IGI Airport, making travel more convenient for airport passengers and staff.
5. Why is Delhi Metro expansion important for urban transport?
The expansion will reduce traffic congestion, cut pollution, save travel time, and enhance connectivity to commercial, residential, and airport zones.
6. Which government bodies are funding the Phase V (A) project?
The funding is shared by the Central Government, Delhi Government, and international agencies to support infrastructure and sustainable urban development.
7. What is the significance of this news for government exam aspirants?
This news is relevant for exams like UPSC, State PSCs, SSC, Banking, Railways, Defence, under topics like Urban Development, Transport Policies, and National Infrastructure.
8. How does Phase V (A) fit into the historical development of Delhi Metro?
Phase V (A) is part of the progressive expansion since 2002, following Phases I–IV, enhancing connectivity in Delhi and the National Capital Region.
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