Delhi Metro has become the world's longest rapid transit network at 420 kilometre (km), surpassing the New York City subway, the report said on 27 February 2026. The expansion that led to the milestone is the result of successive phases of construction and network extensions implemented over two decades. The achievement was reported by TNM with inputs from ANI and reflects the capital's continued investment in urban mass transit infrastructure. The milestone marks a notable point in the city's efforts to modernise its transit network.

The enlarged network is said to improve connectivity across the national capital region, linking new suburbs and existing urban centres and providing more direct journeys for commuters. Planners expect the expanded lines to ease road congestion and contribute to lower emissions by encouraging modal shift from private vehicles to public transport. The system's design integrates interchange stations to facilitate transfers and reduce overall travel times. Commuters are expected to benefit from shorter journey times and more reliable services.

Officials noted that the network expansion has required coordination across municipal, state and central agencies and significant capital investment. Construction included extensions of existing corridors and the opening of new stretches, bringing the total operational route length to 420 kilometre. The development has been accompanied by upgrades to signalling, rolling stock and station amenities to support higher passenger volumes and improve service reliability.

Planners are reported to continue work on further capacity enhancements and network densification to meet future demand. Authorities are likely to prioritise safety, punctuality and accessibility while exploring ways to integrate feeder services and first and last mile solutions. The milestone positions the Delhi Metro among the largest urban rail systems globally and underscores a broader push to strengthen public transport in the country.