Delhi on fuel economy measures: WFH advisory issued, Delhi Metro to run 24 more routes, DTC to increase connectivity

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has launched six more trains and 24 more journeys across its network from Monday, in line with Prime Minister Modi’s call to encourage the public to commute by public transport. Amid the ongoing energy crisis, the Prime Minister called on the public to conserve fuel and switch to fuel-efficient alternatives to using private vehicles.

In a post on X, DMRC said, “Operational Preparedness for Increased Demand: Anticipating the likely shift from road to Metro in the existing scenario, DMRC will introduce 24 additional train runs from 06 additional trains every Monday starting May 18, 2026 and on subsequent days as required.”

The post added, “This expansion of capacity is aimed at ensuring uninterrupted operations and efficient passenger management during increased passenger journeys. DMRC will closely monitor any increase in demand to take whatever steps are necessary to meet the demand.”

“DMRC remains committed to supporting the national priorities of reducing fuel dependency, promoting sustainable mobility, enhancing commuting convenience and strengthening economic resilience,” Hindustan Times quoted DMRC Chief Executive Officer Corporate Communications Anuj Dayal as saying.

Delhi Government issues WFH recommendations

The Delhi Labor Department also issued the advisory as it recognized the importance of ensuring energy security at a time when the world is facing an energy crisis due to the war in West Asia. In its advisory, the Delhi government has asked private companies and organizations to adopt a two-day work-from-home policy and adjust office timings. Additionally, the Rekha Gupta-led state government has urged employees to use carpooling and public transport amid global energy uncertainty.

The advisory, issued on May 17, said: “To contribute to the national effort to save fuel, all employers of industrial establishments, factories, shops and commercial establishments in Delhi, including IT, IT Enabled Services (ITES), among others, are strongly advised to introduce a minimum of two days of work from home per week.

It is important to note that private entities involved in essential emergency services such as hospitals and other health facilities, electricity, water, sanitation and related utilities are not included in this guidance.

The advisory added: “Employers are urged to educate their workforces about the national importance of fuel economy during the current crisis and actively encourage employees to adopt fuel-efficient commuting practices.”

To encourage fuel-saving initiatives amid global uncertainty, the advisory also suggested staggered working hours to reduce rush hours on roads. The measures come in the backdrop of increased compressed natural gas (CNG) prices in cities like Delhi and Mumbai, which have gone up by ₹2 per kg on May 15. Fuel prices, including petrol and diesel, have risen ₹3 per liter. The second CNG price revision came on Sunday when the rates were hiked by Re 1 per kg in Delhi-NCR.

DTC to increase connectivity

According to a HT report, DTC, which operates around 1,500 DEVi buses at 52 metro stations, will increase connectivity by deploying it to the last mile. To provide last mile services from metro stations to offices, DMRC with support of IOCL has launched hydrogen based bus service in Central Vista area.