Mumbai has moved to the second position among Indian cities in terms of operational metro network length, overtaking Bengaluru after recent expansions pushed its total network beyond the 100 km mark. The milestone follows the commissioning of new stretches under Metro Line 9 and Line 2B, which have strengthened connectivity across key suburban corridors.
The extension of Line 9 between Dahisar and Kashigaon has expanded metro access towards the Mira-Bhayandar region, while the initial operational stretch of Line 2B between Mandale and Diamond Garden has improved connectivity in the eastern suburbs. Together, these additions have contributed nearly 10 km to the network, enabling Mumbai to cross the 100 km threshold. The expansion is part of a broader strategy to ease congestion on suburban rail systems and road networks by building multiple metro corridors simultaneously.
With this development, Bengaluru now ranks third, with its Namma Metro network currently spanning around 96 km and covering 83 stations. Over the past year, Bengaluru added nearly 19 km, largely through progress on the Yellow Line. However, delays in execution and operational constraints have slowed the pace of new openings.
Bengaluru’s metro, which began operations in 2011 with a 7 km stretch, has expanded at an average pace of around 6 km per year. In comparison, Mumbai’s metro system, which started later in 2014, has seen faster growth in recent years due to parallel construction across multiple lines and improved coordination among agencies.
Project delays in Bengaluru have been attributed to construction challenges and issues related to rolling stock availability. The Yellow Line, in particular, has faced a delay of nearly three years, impacting service frequency and leading to longer wait times during peak hours.
Meanwhile, rising pressure on Bengaluru’s transport system, with vehicle registrations exceeding 1.25 crore, has underscored the urgency of metro expansion to address congestion and mobility challenges.
Looking ahead, Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited is advancing key corridors, including a 7 km stretch of the Pink Line expected by mid-2026 and sections of the Blue Line targeted for completion by the end of 2026, with airport connectivity planned by 2027. Once completed, the network is projected to expand to around 175 km.
Delhi continues to lead as the country’s largest metro network in terms of operational scale and coverage.
Source: Prop News Time
