India Observers

  The Delhi Metro achieved a new milestone in 2025 by handling a record 235.8 crore passenger journeys , marking a significant rise from 223.5 crore journeys in 2024 . The growth highlights the increasing reliance of commuters on the capital’s rapid transit network. Average Daily Ridership Crosses 64 Lakh On average, the metro system carried around 64.6 lakh passengers every day in 2025 , reflecting its crucial role in easing traffic congestion and providing a reliable public transport option across the National Capital Region. Backbone of Urban Mobility With its expanding network and improved connectivity, the Delhi Metro continues to be the backbone of urban mobility in Delhi , helping millions of commuters travel efficiently while reducing pollution and road congestion. 🚇

  In a major step towards sustainable urban mobility, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday announced that all public transport buses in the national capital will be converted to electric vehicles within the next three years. The announcement was made during the Republic Day celebrations held at Chhatrasal Stadium in Delhi. The decision marks one of the most ambitious clean transport initiatives undertaken by the city, aimed at reducing air pollution, cutting carbon emissions, and improving the overall quality of life for residents. Addressing the gathering, CM Rekha Gupta said the transition to an emission-free bus fleet would help make Delhi cleaner, healthier, and more environmentally friendly. 11,000 Electric Buses Planned for Delhi The Chief Minister revealed that the Delhi government has already completed arrangements to induct 11,000 electric buses into the city’s public transport system. These buses will replace existing diesel and CNG buses in a phased manner o...

  Delhi is reviving its iconic double-decker buses as part of a fresh push to boost tourism and offer visitors a more engaging way to explore the capital. The reintroduced fleet will operate on curated heritage and sightseeing routes, giving passengers panoramic views of Delhi’s landmarks and vibrant streets. Ticket prices have been set at ₹500 for adults and ₹300 for children, making the ride an affordable and family-friendly experience. With this move, the city aims to blend nostalgia with modern comfort, enhancing the overall travel experience for both tourists and residents.

  Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) has achieved a major milestone by becoming the first airport in India to offer connectivity to 156 destinations across the globe . This expanded network includes both domestic and international routes, strengthening Delhi’s position as a major global aviation hub. The achievement reflects the airport’s continuous efforts to enhance capacity, improve passenger experience, and attract new airlines. With increasing global demand and improved infrastructure, IGIA now plays a pivotal role in connecting India to key business, tourism, and transit markets worldwide. Airport authorities say the expansion supports India’s growing aviation footprint and boosts economic activity by facilitating smoother travel for millions of passengers each year. The milestone also marks an important step in India’s aspiration to become a leading player in international air travel.

  Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is set to introduce audio advertisements inside metro trains, starting with the Pink Line and Violet Line. The initiative aims to generate additional non-fare revenue while keeping passenger fares affordable. The ads will be played through the public announcement systems inside trains, alongside routine passenger information. Officials said the step is part of DMRC’s efforts to diversify revenue streams, following similar practices in metros worldwide. If successful, the model may be expanded to other lines in the network in the coming months.

  In a groundbreaking move for wildlife conservation, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has constructed the country’s first animal overpass corridor along the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway. Designed to allow safe passage for wild animals, especially in forested and wildlife-sensitive zones, the overpass aims to minimize human-animal conflict and road accidents. The eco-friendly structure mimics the natural habitat, enabling animals to cross highways without disruption. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to balance infrastructure development with environmental sustainability. Experts hail it as a model for future highway projects across India.

  Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in Delhi has achieved a major milestone by becoming the first airport in India to offer direct connectivity to 150 destinations across the globe. This achievement highlights Delhi’s growing importance as a global aviation hub and reflects the increasing demand for both international and domestic air travel. Operated by Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), the airport now connects passengers to 70 international and 80 domestic destinations. This growth is credited to strategic route expansions, increased airline partnerships, and a steady rise in passenger traffic over recent years. The milestone not only boosts India’s connectivity with the world but also enhances trade, tourism, and economic ties. It positions Delhi Airport among leading global airports and supports the Indian government’s vision of making India a major global transport hub. With ongoing upgrades and expansion projects, Delhi Airport continues to raise the bar fo...

  India has achieved a major milestone in medical technology with the development of its first indigenous MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) machine. This breakthrough marks a significant step towards self-reliance in advanced healthcare equipment, reducing dependence on expensive imports. The homegrown MRI machine has been developed through collaboration between Indian scientists, engineers, and healthcare experts, with support from government initiatives promoting innovation in medical technology. It promises to be a cost-effective and high-quality alternative to imported MRI systems, making advanced diagnostics more accessible to hospitals and clinics across the country. The first unit is set to be installed at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi by October for clinical trials. If successful, this innovation could revolutionize medical imaging in India, improving healthcare affordability and accessibility.

  Delhi has once again topped the list of the world’s most polluted national capitals, marking the sixth consecutive year of severe air quality concerns. According to the latest report by IQAir, the city’s average annual PM2.5 concentration remains far above the safe limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO). The primary causes of Delhi’s pollution include vehicular emissions, industrial activities, construction dust, and seasonal stubble burning in neighboring states. During winter, a thick layer of smog often blankets the city, worsening health conditions and leading to respiratory illnesses among residents. Despite various government measures such as odd-even vehicle schemes, pollution control campaigns, and restrictions on construction activities, air quality continues to deteriorate. Experts emphasize the urgent need for long-term solutions, including stricter industrial regulations, increased green cover, and improved public transportation systems. With pollution leve...

 The persistence of dense fog in Delhi, coupled with the worsening air quality, continues to disrupt daily life and essential services. The capital's air quality index (AQI) touching 350, categorizing it as "very poor," is a stark reminder of the growing environmental challenges.  With visibility reduced to zero at the Indira Gandhi International Airport and 50 meters at Safdarjung, the fog not only delayed air travel but also affected rail transport, with numerous trains running behind schedule. While authorities managed to avoid major disruptions at the airport, 306 flight delays with an average of 18 minutes highlight the severity of the situation. This ongoing problem, compounded by the low temperatures, demands immediate attention. The fact that the temperature remains largely unchanged while the AQI deteriorates, signals a failure in addressing the root causes of pollution, such as vehicular emissions, industrial output, and construction activity.  Read more: ...

 A tragic incident occurred at Delhi’s Terminal 1 this morning as a portion of the roof collapsed due to heavy rain. This unfortunate event resulted in the death of one person and injuries to six others. Several vehicles, including cabs, were also damaged in the collapse. According to the civil aviation ministry, all flight departures from Terminal 1 have been temporarily halted. The ministry posted on X, “Heavy rain early this morning caused the collapse of the canopy at Terminal 1 of Delhi Airport. Consequently, flights to and from Terminal 1 are suspended until further notice. Alternative arrangements are being made to ensure the smooth operation of flights.” Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu visited the site and inspected Terminal 1. He announced that operations would temporarily shift to Terminal 2 and Terminal 3. Describing the incident as “very serious,” the minister emphasized that a thorough inspection of the airport’s structure would be conducted....

  Arvind Kejriwal, the Chief Minister of Delhi, has been granted bail in two cases filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for skipping agency summons. The Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi granted  Kejriwal  bail on a bail bond of Rs 15,000 and a surety of Rs 1 lakh. The decision came after Kejriwal appeared before the court following a summons issued to him in connection with the Delhi Excise Policy case. The ED had filed two complaints before the magisterial court, seeking Kejriwal’s prosecution for failing to honour multiple summonses issued to him in the case. The Delhi Excise Policy case has seen two senior AAP leaders, Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh, already under judicial custody. Sisodia, the then Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi, was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on February 26 following several rounds of questioning. Singh, a member of the Rajya Sabha, was arrested on October 5. The Delhi Excise Policy case revolves around alleged irregularit...

  Getting to the  Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya  in the heart of Delhi is now more convenient, thanks to a special ‘shuttle bus’ service introduced by the Delhi transport department. Commencing from November 1, 2023, visitors can easily access these shuttle buses from nearby metro stations at Central Secretariat and Udyog Bhawan. The plan is to extend the service to Lok Kalyan Marg station based on the response to this new initiative. The buses operate on a loop, making hourly trips and even offering the convenience of purchasing museum tickets on board. Opened in April 2022, the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya stands as a tribute to India’s rich political history and its journey through parliamentary democracy. Beyond the historical aspects, the museum celebrates contemporary achievements, including India’s space ventures such as the Chandrayaan missions. A captivating light and sound show detailing the cosmic journey and a November show dedicated to the courageous women warrior...

  The looming threat of extreme heat waves in Indian cities like  Delhi  and Kolkata, exacerbated by global warming, poses a deadly risk to human health. If global temperatures surge by two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, millions in densely populated areas of India, Pakistan, and China will bear the brunt of these scorching conditions. The gravity of the situation intensifies as residents in these regions lack access to air-conditioners and effective cooling methods, leaving them vulnerable to the health hazards posed by extreme heat and humidity. The human body’s tolerance to specific combinations of heat and humidity becomes compromised, increasing the risks of heart attacks and heat strokes. The research underscores that the impact of intensifying heat waves won’t spare even residents of developed or affluent countries. However, the study particularly emphasizes the vulnerability of regions with rapid population growth to the worst heat stress. The resear...

  As the   G20 Summit   approaches in Delhi, security measures are in the spotlight. A dedicated team of 1,000 highly skilled security personnel, known as the “Special 50,” has been formed by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to protect foreign delegates. Leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI), advanced cameras are capable of identifying unusual activities like climbing, running, or suspicious movements, instantly alerting security personnel for further action. Alongside this, the involvement of National Security Guard (NSG) commandos, Army snipers, and international intelligence agencies ensures a comprehensive security setup. Delhi is gearing up for the G20 Summit under India’s leadership, ensuring meticulous preparations. The Bharat Mandapam Convention Centre will host the two-day event, providing a modern and suitable venue. Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena oversees the arrangements, emphasizing the enhancement of infrastructure, road repairs, beautification, and ...

  Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inspected the construction of the new Parliament building in Delhi . The building, which is being built at a cost of around Rs 971 crore, will replace the current Parliament building which was built over 90 years ago. The new building is being designed by Ahmedabad-based architecture firm HCP Design, Planning, and Management, and will have a total floor area of approximately 64,500 square meters. It is expected to be completed by 2022. During his inspection, PM Modi was briefed on the progress of the construction work and the various features of the new building. He was also shown a model of the building and given a tour of the construction site. The new Parliament building will have a modern design and will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. It will have a seating capacity of 1,224 members in the Lok Sabha and 384 members in the Rajya Sabha. The building will also have a grand Constitution Hall, which will showcase India's...

 AAP Minister Manish Sisodia has been sentenced to 14-day judicial custody in Tihar till 20th March. He’d asked for a Meditation cell but the court allowed Geeta. The former deputy chief minister of Delhi will spend Holi in Tihar prison after a special court ordered him to be held in judicial custody until March 20 on Monday.  After his CBI custody ended this afternoon, Sisodia—the main suspect in the Delhi liquor scam case—was presented in the special court.  Sisodia was previously detained by the CBI after being interrogated for several hours regarding his alleged involvement in the liquor scam.  The central agency was granted his custody for an additional two days by special judge MK Nagpal on Saturday The AAP leader claimed in his bail request that the CBI was harassing him mentally by repeatedly asking the same question of him.  According to Sisodia’s attorney, detaining him will “serve no fruitful purpose” because all extraction in the case has already be...

 Godrej Properties has acquired late Bollywood celebrity Raj Kapoor ’s bungalow in Mumbai’s Chembur suburb to develop a premium residential project. According to a statement from the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), the Housing Rules, 1968, which were enacted under section 57 of the DDA Act, 1957, have been “approved modifications/relaxations” as requested by the DDA.  The DDA is now accepting applications for the first time for the allotment of freshly constructed flats if the applicant has a flat or a plot of land in Delhi that is less than 67 square meters in size. The DDA stated in a statement, “Anybody in Delhi with a flat or plot that is less than 67 square meters is now qualified to apply for the first time for the DDA’s assignment of freshly built flats. The primary regulations prohibited anyone from applying for an allocation of DDA flats if they or any of their family members already owned a flat or a plot of land, regardless of the size of the flat or plot.”...

 Income Tax ‘survey’ raids at BBC offices continue for 3rd day. A Pakistani journalist questioned the US State Department official regarding this operation. A Pakistani journalist was redirected by the United States to “refer to the Government of India” in order to obtain information on the “investigation” the income tax department carried out at the Delhi office and Mumbai studio of the BBC.  The US “supports the value of free press around the world,” the spokesperson for the US State Department stated in response to a journalist from Pakistan. “We are aware that the BBC offices in Delhi have been searched… We keep emphasizing how important freedom of speech and freedom of religion or belief are.  Ned Price, the spokeswoman, described them as human rights that “contribute to the advancement of democracy here in this country, in India, and in our partner democracies throughout the world.” The US official was replying to a query about “raiding” the BBC offices from Jahan...