Commuters in Delhi using the Metro this Sunday need to note a change in the schedule. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has confirmed that services on Phase-III corridors will begin one hour early on March 8, 2026. This arrangement is made to facilitate public movement during the inauguration of new metro sections by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Usually, Sunday services on these lines start a bit later, but to manage the expected rush, the trains will start running from 6:00 AM.
Which Routes Will Start Early at 6:00 AM?
Passengers traveling on the Phase-III lines should be aware that the first train will depart at 6:00 AM instead of the usual 7:00 AM Sunday schedule. This applies specifically to the following corridors:
- Line 7 (Pink Line): Majlis Park to Shiv Vihar.
- Line 8 (Magenta Line): Botanical Garden to Janakpuri West (covering Krishna Park Extension).
- Line 9 (Grey Line): Dwarka to Dhansa Bus Stand.
For all other corridors not mentioned above, the metro services will continue to run as per their regular Sunday timetable. If you travel on the Yellow or Blue line, your schedule remains unchanged.
Reason Behind the Schedule Change
The primary reason for this early resumption is the inauguration ceremony being led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He is scheduled to officially open the Majlis Park to Maujpur-Babarpur section. This is a significant development as it completes the 12.3 km stretch, making the Pink Line India’s first fully operational “Ring Metro,” creating a 71.56 km loop around the city. Additionally, the PM will inaugurate the Deepali Chowk to Majlis Park section of the Magenta Line.
Guidelines for Commuters
The DMRC has issued simple advice for passengers to ensure a smooth journey on this busy day:
- Fares: Standard Sunday fare rules will apply. There is no special pricing for the early hours.
- Event Location: The inauguration is happening at DDA Utsav Sthal-3. Using the metro is advised to avoid potential road diversions.
- Plan Ahead: Commuters should check if their station falls on the Phase-III lines before leaving home at 6:00 AM.