The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has requested Rs 72 billion from the revised Delhi budget for FY 2024-25 to ensure the timely completion of Phase-IV corridors and clear pending dues from Phase-III. DMRC Managing Director Vikas Kumar, in a letter to the Chief Secretary, stressed that delays in funding could lead to project setbacks and cost overruns.
Phase-IV includes three priority corridors—RK Ashram to Janakpuri West, Aerocity to Tughlaqabad, and Mukundpur to Maujpur—spanning nearly 62 km and slated for completion by 2026. Sanctions have also been received for two additional lines: Lajpat Nagar to Saket G Block and Inderlok to Indraprastha. However, the Rithala to Nathupur corridor awaits approval. The total project cost for Phase-IV stands at Rs 249.48 billion, requiring consistent funding to meet deadlines.
Kumar also requested Rs 3.76 billion for the Public Works Department (PWD) to construct three double-decker viaducts along the Aerocity-Tughlaqabad corridor. These unique structures, featuring metro trains on the upper deck and vehicles below, are integral to Phase-IV.
DMRC highlighted the need for an additional Rs 7.25 billion to settle contractual obligations from Phase-III, which covered 160 km. Furthermore, funds are needed to repay the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) loan and manage the Delhi government’s share of foreign exchange variations.
The DMRC urged the Delhi government to approve the funds in the revised budget, ensuring uninterrupted construction and avoiding delays in the Phase-IV expansion.
