Delhi Metro Upgrades 20-Year-Old Trains, Adds Charging Points and Modern Safety Systems

New Delhi

oi-Swastika Sruti

Published: Sunday, April 12, 2026, 18:50 [IST]

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has started a large-scale refurbishment programme to upgrade its oldest trains, especially those running on the Blue Line. The move aims to improve passenger safety, comfort, and overall travel experience.

These trains, introduced between 2002 and 2007, have completed nearly 20 years of service and are now being modernised to match current standards.

Focus on Oldest Blue Line Trains

The upgrade programme mainly targets the earliest rolling stock, known as RS-1 trains. These trains have been in operation since the early days of the Delhi Metro and are among the oldest in the network.

DMRC plans to refurbish 70 trains across the Red and Blue Lines in different phases.

• Phase 1: 12 trains upgraded
• Phase 2: 18 trains upgraded
• Phase 3: Currently underway, with 22 Blue Line trains to be refurbished by November 2027

So far, a total of 31 trains have already been upgraded, showing steady progress in the project.

Inspection and Rollout of Refurbished Trains

DMRC Managing Director Vikas Kumar recently inspected the first train completed under the third phase before it returned to service.

This step ensures that all upgraded trains meet safety and performance standards before being used by passengers.

New Features for Better Passenger Experience

The refurbished trains come with several new features designed to make travel more comfortable and informative for commuters.

Modern Information Systems

New IP-based Passenger Announcement and Passenger Information Systems (PA-PIS) have been installed. These systems provide real-time updates about:

• Upcoming stations
• Route details
• Important announcements

Passengers will also benefit from LCD-based Dynamic Route Maps, which display live journey information inside coaches.

Improved Safety Measures

Safety has been a key focus of the upgrade programme.

• New CCTV cameras have been installed in all coaches
• Advanced fire detection systems with smoke and heat sensors have been added
• Systems now allow better communication between passengers and operators during emergencies

These changes aim to make metro travel safer and more secure.

Better Interiors and Electrical Systems

The trains have also received aesthetic and technical improvements:

• Passenger areas and driver cabins have been repainted to remove signs of wear and tear
• Electrical panels have been upgraded for improved reliability
• Old relays and Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCBs) have been replaced with advanced units

These updates ensure smoother and more dependable operations.

Charging Points for Modern Needs

To meet the needs of today’s commuters, DMRC has added mobile and laptop charging points in all refurbished coaches.

Additionally, new jumper cables and connectors have been installed to support these upgrades and future technologies.

A Step Towards a Modern Metro System

This refurbishment programme reflects DMRC’s effort to extend the life of older trains while upgrading them with modern technology.

By improving safety, comfort, and connectivity, the Delhi Metro aims to offer a better travel experience without replacing entire fleets.

For daily commuters, these upgrades mean safer journeys, more convenience, and a smoother ride across the city.