Metro – Delhi Metro Plans Driverless Expansion With New Train Fleet
Metro – The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation is preparing to expand its driverless network by acquiring a new fleet of metro coaches for one of its upcoming corridors. As part of its Phase IV development plan, the agency has issued tenders to procure 90 standard-gauge metro cars, which will be arranged into 15 trains, each consisting of six coaches. These trains are intended for deployment along the Inderlok to Indraprastha stretch, an extension of the existing Magenta Line.
Tender outlines scope and timeline
According to the tender details, the selected contractor will handle the complete process, including design, manufacturing, supply, testing, and commissioning of the metro cars. The document specifies a project timeline of 204 weeks for completion. This initiative marks a significant step toward strengthening Delhi’s public transport infrastructure with advanced, automated train operations.
Funding support and financial structure
The expansion project is partially financed through a loan agreement signed in March 2025 between the Government of India and the Japan International Cooperation Agency. While this funding will cover a portion of the project cost, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation will independently manage the long-term maintenance expenses associated with the new trains.
Long-term maintenance and operational responsibilities
The contract goes beyond procurement, placing responsibility for comprehensive maintenance on the selected bidder for a period of 35 years. This includes upkeep of depot machinery, specialized tools, testing systems, and diagnostic equipment. In addition, the contractor will be required to train DMRC personnel to ensure smooth operations and efficient handling of the advanced systems involved in driverless train technology.
Expansion of the Magenta Line corridor
The Inderlok–Indraprastha route forms a key extension of the Magenta Line under Phase IV. Future plans under Phase V include extending the line further from Ramakrishna Ashram Marg to Indraprastha via the Central Vista area. Currently, the Magenta Line operates between Botanical Garden and Janakpuri West, serving as an important link across Delhi.
Increase in network length and connectivity
With the planned extension reaching Inderlok, the Magenta Line is expected to expand to approximately 89 kilometers, making it the longest corridor within the Delhi Metro network. Once completed, the entire stretch will function as a fully driverless corridor, enhancing efficiency and reducing dependency on manual operations.
Interchange stations to improve accessibility
The expansion will significantly increase connectivity across the network. At present, the Magenta Line has four interchange stations: Kalkaji Mandir, Botanical Garden, Janakpuri West, and Hauz Khas. After completion of Phases IV and V, the number of interchange stations is expected to rise to 21. Among these, Central Secretariat, Azadpur, New Delhi, and Inderlok will serve as triple interchange hubs, allowing seamless transfers between multiple metro lines.
Station infrastructure and passenger benefits
The extended corridor will include a total of 65 stations, out of which 40 will be underground. This development is expected to ease congestion across the city, shorten travel times, and provide improved connectivity for commuters. The introduction of driverless technology is also likely to enhance operational reliability and safety standards within the system.