Delhi Metro To Install Three New Escalators At Karol Bagh Station
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced a major upgrade at the Karol Bagh metro station, central Delhi, to manage growing passenger footfall and improve commuter convenience. As part of a ₹2.58 crore tender, three new escalators will be installed one connecting the ground level to the concourse on the market side and two connecting the concourse to the platforms. The existing staircase will be partially dismantled to create space for the upgrades.
Currently, Karol Bagh station on the Blue Line has only a single escalator and one staircase, which has led to congestion during peak hours. DMRC officials noted that the remodel is aimed at improving crowd management and enhancing facilities for daily commuters, especially in the bustling market area. “Periodic modifications are carried out across the network wherever footfall pressures or infrastructure requirements demand,” a DMRC official said.The tender requires bidders to design, fabricate, supply, and install a pre-engineered building structure for the escalators, including the widening of existing slabs and removal of certain stair sections. Work is expected to be completed within eight months of contract handover, with bids opening on November 3.
Such upgrades are part of DMRC’s broader strategy to optimise passenger movement and provide modern amenities across Delhi’s metro network. In 2023, for example, Sarojini Nagar metro station underwent significant modifications to manage high commuter volumes, including separate entry and exit points and the installation of automatic fare collection gates.Urban transport experts highlight that metro stations located in commercial hubs require regular assessment to ensure safe and efficient commuter flow. Enhancements like escalator installation not only ease access for daily passengers but also support gender-neutral mobility by providing safer and more convenient access for women, the elderly, and differently-abled individuals.
The Karol Bagh project also aligns with sustainable urban infrastructure principles. By reducing congestion and promoting efficient crowd management, DMRC seeks to minimise energy consumption and optimise station operations. Integrating escalators strategically also reduces dependency on stairs, indirectly contributing to lower carbon footprint in high-traffic areas.Officials emphasise that continual infrastructure upgrades are crucial for Delhi Metro’s mission of delivering world-class urban transit solutions. By combining safety, convenience, and sustainability, stations like Karol Bagh are being transformed to meet future demands while supporting equitable urban mobility across the capital.As Delhi continues to witness growing urbanisation and rising commuter volumes, such initiatives demonstrate the city’s commitment to sustainable, accessible, and modern public transport infrastructure.
