It’s Tough to Imagine Life as a Woman in Delhi Without the Metro

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, October 1, 2026

The Delhi Metro remains a vital and safe transportation option for many women and urban commuters, despite a recent fare hike aimed at funding maintenance and growth. Experts stress the need for better integration with bus services to create a more affordable and comprehensive transit network for all residents.

For many women in Delhi, the metro has become an indispensable part of daily life, offering a reliable and secure means of transportation across the city. Tripti Jain, a 23-year-old toy designer, described the metro as convenient and air-conditioned, providing a predictable travel time that helps her manage her work schedule efficiently.

Since its inception, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has incorporated several safety features to address concerns, particularly for female passengers. Coaches designated for women are monitored by security cameras and marshals who ensure that men do not enter these compartments, contributing to a safer commuting environment.

Despite significant subsidies aimed at keeping fares affordable, the metro remains out of reach for some residents due to cost. In August 2025, the system implemented its first fare increase in eight years, raising prices by one to five rupees to support ongoing maintenance and infrastructure needs. Janvi Jhamb, a 22-year-old University of Delhi student, noted that while the metro is the most efficient mode of travel, more cost-effective options would benefit many users.

Public transportation outside the metro continues to face challenges. Experts point to a lack of coordination between the DMRC and other agencies responsible for bus services and road infrastructure, which hinders the development of an integrated transit system.

Geetam Tiwari, an emeritus professor of transportation at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, highlighted that while the DMRC excels at constructing and operating its network, it tends to view buses as competitors rather than complementary modes of transport. Improving the efficiency and integration of the bus system is seen as crucial for servicing residents who cannot afford metro fares or live beyond the metro lines.

Deepty Jain, an assistant professor of transportation at the same institute, emphasized the need for a multi-modal approach to public transit. "You just cannot rely on one. One is not enough," she said, underscoring the importance of strengthening the bus network alongside expanding the metro.

Despite these challenges, the Delhi Metro has established high standards for efficiency and professionalism in public transportation. Anuj Dayal, principal executive director and chief of communications at DMRC, acknowledged that while the system is relatively young compared to other global subway networks, it already competes at a high level in terms of service quality.

The Delhi Metro’s continued expansion marks a significant advancement in public transport for the city. However, experts agree that developing a more integrated and affordable network, especially for buses, is essential to meet the diverse needs of Delhi’s growing population.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.