India’s Metro Network Set to Cross 2,000 Km
India’s metro rail network is expected to cross the 2,000-kilometre mark soon, potentially making it the world’s second-largest metro network after China. Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs Tokhan Sahu shared the projection while inaugurating the 19th Urban Mobility India Conference and Exhibition 2026 in Bhubaneswar on October 23.
According to the minister, India’s operational metro network has expanded from 248 kilometres across five cities in 2014 to more than 1,185 kilometres across 26 cities. The expansion reflects the growing role of metro rail in meeting the transport needs of India’s rapidly urbanising population.
Nearly 1,000 Km of Metro Lines Under Construction
India is continuing to expand its metro infrastructure, with work underway on approximately 998 kilometres of additional metro lines. Once completed and operational, these projects will add significantly to the country’s urban rail connectivity.
The minister also highlighted the scale of metro usage, with around 1.5 crore passengers travelling on metro services every day. The expansion is expected to improve access to public transport, reduce dependence on private vehicles and support more efficient movement within cities.
Urban Mobility and Sustainable Transport in Focus
The announcement came during the two-day Urban Mobility India Conference and Exhibition 2026, held in Bhubaneswar on October 23 and 24. Organised by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, the event focused on urban accessibility and liveability in the digital age.
Discussions covered sustainable public transport, digital mobility, integrated transport systems, first- and last-mile connectivity and measures to reduce traffic congestion and emissions.
Sahu also highlighted the PM-eBus Sewa initiative, which promotes sustainable urban transportation. Odisha’s Ama Bus service was cited as a model for public transport.
India’s Growing Urban Transport Network
The expansion of metro rail is part of a broader effort to improve urban infrastructure as cities face rising travel demand. Metro systems offer high-capacity transport and can help ease road congestion when integrated with buses and other mobility options.
With new lines under construction, India is moving towards a larger metro network that could strengthen connectivity across major cities and emerging urban centres. Crossing the 2,000-kilometre milestone will depend on the completion and commissioning of projects currently in progress.
