Context:
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has suggested that the Delhi Metro network be expanded to nearly double its current size, drawing inspiration from Beijing’s metro system, to significantly reduce vehicular pollution.
Key Highlights:
Current Status of Delhi Metro
• Delhi Metro currently spans 462.7 km, with 352.16 km operational.
• It serves 6.5–7 million passengers daily.
Proposed Expansion
• CAQM suggests expanding the network to 20–30 metro lines with around 450–500 stations.
• Aim is to make public transport more accessible and reduce reliance on private vehicles.
Benchmark Example
• Beijing Metro has 879 km network and about 420 stations, serving as a global benchmark.
Complementary Transport Systems
• Expansion of Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) network to 323 km within four years.
• Focus on electric mobility and improved last-mile connectivity.
Research Findings
• A TERI–ARAI (2018) report indicates that electrified public transport can significantly reduce PM2.5 and PM10 levels.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Vehicular Pollution
- Major source of urban air pollution, contributing to PM2.5 and PM10 emissions.
- Last-Mile Connectivity
- Transportation solutions linking major transit hubs to final destinations.
- Particulate Matter (PM)
- PM10: particles smaller than 10 micrometers.
- PM2.5: particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers, highly harmful to health.
- Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS)
- High-speed rail network connecting Delhi with nearby NCR cities.
Relevant Mains Points:
Role of Public Transport in Pollution Reduction
• Reduces vehicle density on roads.
• Encourages modal shift from private vehicles.
• Decreases urban carbon emissions and particulate pollution.
Challenges
• High infrastructure costs.
• Need for efficient feeder services and integration with other transport modes.
• Ensuring affordability and accessibility.
Way Forward
• Develop integrated multimodal transport networks.
• Expand electric buses and feeder services.
• Strengthen urban mobility planning and transit-oriented development.
UPSC Relevance:
• GS Paper III – Environment (Urban Pollution)
• GS Paper II – Governance (Urban Infrastructure Policy)