Nations like Israel, Saudi Arabia (Riyadh), and Kenya are turning to India for collaboration in metro development.
India’s expertise in metro rail systems, spearheaded by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), is gaining international acclaim. With a robust domestic portfolio, India is now exporting its metro expertise to the world, showcasing its engineering prowess and cost-effective project management.
India’s Metro Expertise in Bangladesh
The DMRC has played a pivotal role in implementing Dhaka Metro, Bangladesh’s first-ever metro network. This collaboration includes the planning, design, and management of the Dhaka Metro Rail Project, which aims to decongest one of the world’s most densely populated cities.
- Milestone: Inaugurated in 2022, the Dhaka Metro’s first operational line covers 20 km, catering to 5 lakh passengers daily.
- DMRC’s Role: Provided consultancy, including training for Bangladeshi operators and designing operational frameworks.
Consultancy Services in Jakarta, Indonesia
In Jakarta, DMRC has offered consultancy for metro projects, including the city’s ambitious Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system.
- Project Scope: Jakarta’s MRT spans over 230 km, with DMRC advising on technological integration and cost optimization.
- Outcome: This partnership is expected to reduce Jakarta’s traffic congestion and improve public transport efficiency, benefiting over 10 million residents.
Expanding Influence in the Middle East and Africa
Nations like Israel, Saudi Arabia (Riyadh), and Kenya are turning to India for collaboration in metro development.
- Israel: DMRC is exploring metro projects to connect major urban hubs, enhancing sustainable urban mobility in the region.
- Saudi Arabia: Riyadh Metro, one of the largest metro projects in the Middle East, has sought DMRC’s expertise in operations and maintenance strategies.
- Kenya: Nairobi, facing severe urban congestion, is in discussions with DMRC to develop its first metro rail system, aimed at transforming urban transit in East Africa.
Why Nations are Choosing India
- Cost-Effective Expertise: India’s metro projects are significantly more economical compared to those of Western countries. For example, India builds metro systems at a cost of approximately $50-60 million per km, while the global average is $100-120 million per km.
- Proven Track Record: With over 1,000 km of operational metro networks in India, DMRC has demonstrated efficiency in planning, execution, and operations.
- Technological Leadership: India has introduced innovations like driverless metros, under-river tunnels, and water metros, setting benchmarks for urban mobility worldwide.
- Training and Capacity Building: DMRC trains international professionals in operations, maintenance, and safety, enabling countries to efficiently manage their systems.
Boosting India’s Global Standing
These collaborations not only enhance India’s reputation as a leader in metro development but also contribute to strengthening bilateral ties and expanding economic opportunities. By sharing its expertise, India is showcasing its commitment to “Viksit Bharat” while playing a vital role in shaping sustainable urban mobility globally.
From Dhaka to Nairobi, India’s metro systems are becoming a global template for innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. The DMRC’s international engagements exemplify how India’s urban mobility expertise is creating ripple effects beyond its borders, solidifying its position as a global leader in metro development.
