From 248 km to 1,200 km: India's Metro Network Sees Massive Expansion

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday highlighted India's rapid expansion of urban transportation infrastructure, stating that the country's operational metro network has increased from 248 km in 2014 to approximately 1,200 km in 2026. He said the expansion reflects a major transformation in urban mobility and will contribute to India's economic growth.

Modi made the remarks while inaugurating Pune Metro Line 3 (Pink Line) through video conferencing. He also laid the foundation stone for four new metro corridors under Pune Metro Phase-II, involving a combined investment of approximately Rs 21,800 crore.

The newly inaugurated 23-km Pink Line, constructed at a cost of over Rs 8,300 crore, connects the Hinjewadi IT hub with the District Court Metro station. The corridor is expected to improve daily commuting for thousands of IT professionals, reduce traffic congestion and lower dependence on private vehicles.

The project also incorporates sustainability and women's empowerment initiatives. The Pink Line will be operated by women, while approximately 30 per cent of its electricity requirements will be met through solar power.

The Prime Minister also launched the foundation work for Pune Metro Phase-II, estimated to cost around Rs 13,500 crore. The expansion includes four corridors Lines 2A, 2B, 4 and 4A covering important residential, commercial and IT hubs across the city.

Highlighting the country's progress, Modi said metro services, which were available in only five cities in 2014, are now operational in 26 cities, with more than one crore passengers travelling by metro every day. He added that India has emerged among the world's three largest metro networks, with nearly fivefold growth in operational coverage over 12 years.

Maharashtra has also witnessed significant progress, with its operational metro network expanding from 11 km in 2014 to nearly 200 km. Work is underway on more than 680 km of additional metro lines, attracting investments exceeding Rs 2.5 lakh crore and creating employment opportunities for workers, engineers and businesses.

Modi emphasised that improved metro connectivity saves commuting time, increases productivity and strengthens economic activity. He also highlighted the Centre's Rs 1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund, approved in February 2026, to mobilise investments in urban development and transform smaller cities into future growth centres.

He said the Pune Metro project demonstrates how public-private partnerships (PPP) can accelerate infrastructure development. The Prime Minister also assured support to farmers affected by adverse weather conditions in Maharashtra and urged people to help affected rural families celebrate Diwali.