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Historic Shahdara–Tis Hazari Route Recreates Delhi Metro’s Inaugural Journey

December 26, 2025

Delhi Metro Celebrates 23 Years of Passenger Service

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) marked 23 years of passenger operations by running its first-ever metro train, TS#01 , as a special commemorative service. The initiative paid tribute to the launch of metro services in December 2002 , an event that transformed urban transport in the national capital and set new benchmarks for mass rapid transit in India.

Anniversary Service on the Original Metro Corridor

The commemorative run was conducted on the 8.3-kilometre Shahdara–Tis Hazari corridor , the first operational stretch of the Delhi Metro. By deploying TS#01 on this historic route, DMRC recreated the experience of the network’s inaugural journey, offering commuters a rare opportunity to relive a defining moment in Delhi’s urban mobility history.

Passenger Engagement and Celebrations

To mark the occasion, the train was adorned with flowers and a commemorative banner , creating a festive atmosphere. Passengers travelling on the special service were greeted with flowers, reinforcing DMRC’s emphasis on connecting its institutional legacy with public participation and commuter goodwill.

Legacy and Performance of Train TS#01

Introduced in 2002 as a four-coach train , TS#01 has evolved with Delhi Metro’s growing ridership. It was expanded to six coaches in 2014 and further upgraded to eight coaches in 2023 . Over its operational life, the train has covered nearly 2.9 million kilometres , safely transporting over 60 million passengers and completing approximately 2.4 million door operations .

Technology, Sustainability and Upgrades

Manufactured by the MRM Consortium of South Korea , TS#01 was brought to Delhi via Kolkata at an initial cost of around ₹24 crore . The train features regenerative braking , recovering nearly 40% of energy used , thereby reducing carbon emissions. Following major overhauls and a mid-life rehabilitation in 2024 , it now includes advanced passenger information systems, CCTV surveillance, emergency alarms and enhanced safety features, maintaining high reliability standards.

Important Facts for Exams

  • Delhi Metro began operations on 24 December 2002

  • Shahdara–Tis Hazari was the first operational corridor

  • Regenerative braking recovers ~40% energy

  • TS#01 remains in active service after 23 years

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