India is rapidly expanding its metro rail network and is projected to soon surpass the United States in terms of total length. This announcement was made by Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar.
Speaking at an event in Bhopal on Saturday, December 20, 2025, Khattar highlighted India's progress in urban transportation. He noted that India currently holds the third position globally in metro rail network length. As of now, India has an operational metro network spanning 1,090 km across 26 cities. The United States, in comparison, has approximately 1,400 km of metro lines. China leads the world with the largest metro network, boasting over 10,000 km.
Khattar stated that India is on track to overtake the U.S. in the near future, with an additional 955 km of metro projects in the pipeline. He estimated that India only needs to complete an additional 300 km to surpass the US. Several major metro projects are underway in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Pune, Bhopal and Indore which are expected to add more than 300 kilometers of new metro and regional rail corridors by 2026.
The expansion of India's metro network is a key component of the country's urbanization and infrastructure development initiatives. The Minister highlighted that in 1960s, India's urbanization rate was 20 percent which increased to 30 percent by 2027. It is also projected to reach 50 percent by 2057. By 2050, cities and towns are expected to contribute 80% of India's GDP, making modern transportation systems essential.
The government is also focusing on promoting e-mobility and developing roads as part of the urbanization drive. Initiatives such as Make in India, solar-powered stations, and driverless metros are also being implemented to drive clean and future-ready mobility.
The Delhi Metro is a prime example of India's metro revolution. With the addition of the 12-km Aerocity to Tughlakabad corridor, the Delhi Metro's operational length will exceed 400km, making it the longest single-city metro system globally. The Delhi Metro currently operates a 394-km network, which is set to expand significantly under Phase 4 of development.
The expansion of metro networks is not limited to Delhi. Other cities like Mumbai and Chennai are also expanding their metro networks. Bangalore has also received sanction from the Central Government for 45 km of Phase-3 at a cost of ₹15,600 crore.
India's rapid expansion of its metro rail network signifies its commitment to providing efficient, sustainable, and modern urban transportation solutions. The growth of the metro network will not only improve connectivity and reduce congestion but also contribute to economic growth and a better quality of life for citizens.
