India's Metro Investment: Billions Spent, Commuter Numbers Disappointing

Mon Apr 20 2026 01:31:24 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Despite investing $26 billion in metro systems, India faces low ridership and underutilization of its urban transit networks.

India has invested significantly in expanding its metro networks across various cities, aiming to ease urban congestion. However, the actual ridership numbers are far below projections, leading to concerns about the effectiveness of this investment. Experts cite factors including high costs, inadequate demand projections, and poor last-mile connectivity as key reasons for low commuter turnout, challenging the government's plans for efficient urban transit.

India's Metro Investment: Billions Spent, Commuter Numbers Disappointing

On a weekday evening last month, Mumbai's southbound Aqua Line metro train nearly emptied out a couple of stops before the final one. The last station bore a stark resemblance to a desolate Soviet-era structure rather than a bustling train terminal in a city typically bustling with people.

Aqua Line, the city's new underground metro connecting business hubs, opened last year with promising projections of carrying about 1.5 million passengers daily. However, it currently serves only about one-tenth of that figure, reflecting a broader trend across India's rapidly expanding metro network.

Since 2014, the Indian government has spent over $26 billion on metro systems in nearly two dozen cities. The metro network has grown significantly, yet this growth masks concerning ridership numbers. Reports suggest most metro systems achieve only 25-35% of their projected ridership. For instance, Kanpur's metro ridership maxes out at a mere 2% of estimates.

Experts attribute low usage to a combination of factors, including high ticket prices, slow attitudes towards subsidies, and poor network planning. In some areas, the cost of maintaining a metro commute can take up to 20% of lower-income earners’ income, surpassing the global benchmark.

Citizens have voiced concerns ranging from affordability to convenience and safety, especially for women. Moreover, issues like last-mile connectivity remain insufficient, limiting the effective reach of metro systems.

Despite these challenges, experts predict a gradual rise in metro usage as traffic and pollution issues escalate in Indian cities. However, without comprehensive reforms addressing affordability and operational efficiencies, a significant increase in ridership may remain out of reach.