Delhi Metro Runs First-Ever Special Train on 23rd Anniversary

The Delhi Metro marked 23 years of passenger operations by running its first-ever train, TS#01, as a special commemorative service. The occasion celebrated the journey of one of India’s most successful urban mass transit systems, recalling the historic launch of metro services in the national capital in 2002.

Special Anniversary Service on Historic Route

The special service was operated on the 8.3-kilometre Shahdara–Tis Hazari corridor, the very stretch where Delhi Metro services were inaugurated over two decades ago. By reintroducing TS#01 on this route, commuters were offered a chance to relive the experience of the network’s inaugural run, which marked a turning point in Delhi’s urban mobility.

Celebrations and Passenger Experience

Train TS#01 was decorated with flowers and a commemorative banner to mark the milestone. Passengers travelling on the special service were welcomed with flowers, adding a festive touch to the anniversary celebrations. The initiative underscored the Delhi Metro’s focus on connecting its operational legacy with public engagement.

Journey and Performance of Train TS#01

TS#01 continues to remain in active service. Initially introduced as a four-coach train in 2002, it was expanded to six coaches in 2014 and further upgraded to eight coaches in 2023 to meet rising passenger demand. Since its induction, the train has covered nearly 2.9 million kilometres, safely carrying over 60 million passengers and recording around 2.4 million door operations.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Delhi Metro began passenger operations on December 24, 2002.
• Shahdara–Tis Hazari was the first operational corridor of the Delhi Metro.
• Regenerative braking allows Delhi Metro trains to recover nearly 40% of energy used.
• Delhi Metro is among India’s largest urban rapid transit systems.

Technology, Sustainability and Reliability

Manufactured by the MRM Consortium of South Korea, TS#01 was transported to Delhi via Kolkata using the Indian Railways network at an initial cost of about Rs 24 crore. The train features an advanced propulsion system that reduces carbon emissions through regenerative braking. Following two major overhauls and a mid-life rehabilitation in 2024, it now includes upgraded passenger information systems, CCTV cameras, emergency alarms, dynamic route maps, and improved safety features, maintaining a mean distance between failures well above contractual standards.