Union Cabinet Clears Delhi Metro Phase V(A): A Strategic Leap in Urban Connectivity
- MGMMTeam
- 5 minutes ago
- 3 min read
The Union Cabinet’s approval of Delhi Metro Phase V(A) marks a significant milestone in India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen urban public transport. With this decision, the government has sanctioned the construction of new metro corridors aimed at improving connectivity across Central Delhi, South Delhi and the Indira Gandhi International Airport zone. The expansion reflects a broader vision to reduce traffic congestion, promote sustainable mobility and support the capital’s rapidly growing commuter population.
The Phase V(A) project will add approximately 16 kilometres to the Delhi Metro network at an estimated cost of around ₹12,015 crore. Once completed, the total operational length of the Delhi Metro is expected to cross the 400-kilometre mark, further cementing its position as one of the largest and most advanced metro systems in the world.
Corridors Designed Around Strategic Urban Needs
One of the most prominent components of Phase V(A) is the R.K. Ashram Marg to Indraprastha corridor, which directly connects the redeveloped Central Vista area with the broader metro network. This corridor is expected to serve thousands of government employees working in newly constructed administrative buildings, while also benefiting the large number of daily visitors to landmarks such as India Gate and surrounding institutions. By integrating Central Vista into the metro grid, the project aims to reduce dependence on private vehicles in one of Delhi’s busiest zones.
Another key addition is the Aerocity to IGI Airport Terminal-1 corridor, a short but crucial link that enhances airport accessibility. This stretch will allow seamless metro travel to the domestic terminal, benefiting air travellers, airport staff and hospitality workers in the Aerocity region. Improved airport connectivity is also expected to ease road congestion on arterial routes leading to the terminal.
The third corridor, connecting Tughlakabad to Kalindi Kunj, focuses on strengthening metro access in South Delhi. This route will integrate residential and commercial areas such as Saket and Chhattarpur more effectively with the existing network, improving daily commutes and encouraging a shift away from road-based transport.
Across these corridors, the project will include 13 new stations, most of them underground, reflecting the dense urban environment through which the lines will pass.
Economic, Environmental and Social Impact
Beyond improved connectivity, the Phase V(A) expansion is expected to deliver substantial economic and environmental benefits. By encouraging greater use of public transport, the project will help reduce vehicular congestion and lower carbon emissions, a critical priority for a city struggling with air pollution. Metro-led development has historically boosted commercial activity around stations, and similar economic uplift is anticipated in newly connected areas.
The expansion also aligns with the government’s focus on improving the “ease of living” for urban residents. Faster, more reliable transport reduces travel time, enhances workplace accessibility and improves overall quality of life for millions of commuters who rely on the Delhi Metro daily.
Part of a Larger Metro Vision
Phase V(A) complements the ongoing Phase IV expansion, which spans over 100 kilometres and is currently under construction. Together, these projects signal a long-term commitment to making the metro the backbone of urban mobility in the National Capital Region. Since its launch in 2002, the Delhi Metro has transformed how the city moves, connecting Delhi with neighbouring cities such as Noida, Ghaziabad, Faridabad and Gurugram.
With daily ridership often touching several million passengers, each new extension plays a crucial role in future-proofing the city’s transport infrastructure.
The MGMM Outlook
The Union Cabinet’s approval of Delhi Metro Phase V(A) strengthens Delhi’s public transport backbone at a time when congestion, pollution and commuter pressure are growing concerns. The addition of nearly 16 kilometres of new corridors across Central Delhi, South Delhi and the airport zone reflects a clear intent to prioritise mass transit over road dependence. By extending connectivity to key areas such as Central Vista, IGI Airport Terminal-1 and densely populated southern neighbourhoods, the expansion supports smoother daily commutes for government employees, residents, airport staff and visitors, while reinforcing the metro’s role as the city’s most reliable mobility system.
Beyond connectivity, Phase V(A) carries wider economic and environmental significance. Improved metro access is expected to reduce traffic load on major roads, cut emissions and encourage a sustained shift towards public transport. Past metro-led development shows how new lines stimulate commercial activity, improve accessibility and enhance urban livability, and similar outcomes are likely along the new corridors with 13 additional stations, most of them underground. Alongside the ongoing Phase IV expansion, this approval signals a long-term, structured approach to making the Delhi Metro the core of urban movement in the National Capital Region, supporting sustainable growth and a better quality of life for millions of commuters.
(Sources: News18, India Today, Financial Express)