The complete Delhi Metro project will usher in a new era in public transportation in Delhi. It offers residents more transportation choices, reduces an overburdened road transport system, and significantly improves environmental quality. The reduction in the number of vehicles on Delhi’s roads will lower fuel costs, while shorter travel times and easier commutes from Delhi’s new satellite townships are expected to boost productivity. With the Delhi Metro, Delhi joins the list of major cities that enjoy the benefits of efficient public transit.

Other benefits of the first phase of the Delhi Metro are to:

• Siphon off 2.2 million commuter trips per day from the roads;
• Increase the average speed of traffic on the roads from 10.5 kilometers (6.5 miles)/hour to 14 kilometers (8.7 miles)/hour;
• Create significant savings in fuel costs;
• Reduce atmospheric pollution by 50%;
• Achieve a likely reduction in the number of road accidents;
• Improve the quality of life and help to instill civic pride throughout Delhi; and
• Set new standards in respect of safety and environmental management of major projects in Delhi.