With Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) enforced in the national capital from 19 October due to worsening air quality, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced 40 additional weekday trips across its corridors to expand passenger capacity and encourage commuters to use public transport.

The move aims to discourage private vehicle use and reduce emissions contributing to Delhi’s pollution crisis. A DMRC spokesperson said that Managing Director Dr Vikas Kumar has directed the operations team to scale up the number of extra trips to 60 if GRAP Stage III is imposed by authorities in the coming days.

“The initiative is intended to motivate citizens to opt for the Metro instead of their own vehicles, thereby contributing collectively to improving air quality in the capital,” the spokesperson added.

Earlier on Wednesday, Dr Vikas Kumar inspected a section of the under-construction Krishna Park Extension–R K Ashram Marg corridor to review compliance with GRAP protocols at Delhi Metro construction sites. He was accompanied by senior officials from the civil and environment departments and assessed measures implemented to control dust pollution.

The DMRC has been actively aligning with the Delhi government’s pollution control strategy, undertaking dust suppression, debris management, and green cover initiatives at project sites.

By enhancing Metro frequency, the corporation aims to provide commuters with a more efficient, eco-friendly alternative, reducing congestion and aiding efforts to combat the city’s deteriorating air quality.