Delhi and Lucknow Metro Services Start Late on Holi
Lucknow and Delhi Metro services will operate on adjusted timings for March 14, in light of the ongoing Holi festivities. The change, which was confirmed by both metro authorities, comes as a response to the celebrations of the festival of colours, which typically result in altered schedules across various public transport systems. The Lucknow Metro and Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) have both communicated that services will begin only in the afternoon, at 2:30 PM, instead of the usual morning hours.
The Lucknow Metro, which usually operates from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM, will now begin its services at 2:30 PM and continue until 10:30 PM, following the same operational hours but with a delayed start. The Uttar Pradesh Metro Corporation has assured that the metro will operate on its usual route, covering 21 stations across 22.8 kilometres. Commuters who depend on the metro for their daily travel are encouraged to plan accordingly and be aware of the change in timing. The transport system will still run smoothly, but the later start is expected to be a considerable adjustment for many residents who rely on the metro in the morning. Similarly, the Delhi Metro, which spans a vast network of 10 lines, will also begin its services at 2:30 PM. DMRC confirmed that no trains will operate before this time, including those on the Airport Express Line, a key route for travellers heading to Indira Gandhi International Airport. With the capital’s metro system serving millions of commuters daily, this change is likely to affect both office-goers and tourists who have planned their travel around the usual morning services. The afternoon commencement of metro services on Holi will continue until the evening, with no further delays expected once the services resume. This alteration in metro timings highlights how public transport systems must adapt to major cultural events. The decision to shift metro services to the afternoon ensures that celebrations can occur without the disruption of heavy commuter traffic, which could hinder the festive spirit. However, while this adjustment is necessary, it also creates potential challenges for people who depend on timely transport to get to work or run errands.
Beyond the immediate adjustment in timings, the Delhi Metro also shared a significant infrastructure development update. As part of its Phase 4 expansion, DMRC recently completed a 1.55-km underground tunnel connecting the Kishangarh and Vasant Kunj Metro stations. This new section forms a vital part of the 19.34-km Aerocity-Tughlakabad corridor and will significantly enhance connectivity in South Delhi. The completion of the tunnel is a crucial milestone in the city’s metro expansion plans, aimed at alleviating congestion and providing a more sustainable mode of transport for the city’s growing population.
Commuters in both Lucknow and Delhi are advised to monitor official announcements and updates for any further changes to the schedule. Despite the delay in service timings, the metro authorities have reassured passengers that both cities’ metro systems will return to normal operations promptly after the special schedules for Holi.
As Holi celebrations take centre stage in the country, public transport authorities are continuing their efforts to strike a balance between ensuring efficient operations and respecting the cultural significance of such events. As the day progresses, the hope is that the altered timings will provide both flexibility for revelers and fairness to those still needing transport. However, residents are still reminded to plan their travel with the delayed schedules in mind.
