Travelling by Delhi Metro on Diwali? Check DMRC's new timings before heading out

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) released an updated timetable for the upcoming Diwali holiday period, advising commuters that trains will run from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. on the days surrounding the festival. The extended schedule adds two extra services during the early morning peak and three additional trains in the late evening to accommodate shoppers and worshippers traveling to markets, temples and firecracker stalls. The corporation also announced that certain interchange stations will see a higher frequency of trains, with intervals reduced to three minutes on the busiest routes. These changes are intended to reduce crowding and ensure smoother journeys during one of the city’s busiest travel windows.

DMRC officials explained that the timing adjustment is designed to spread passenger flow more evenly across the day, thereby lowering the risk of platform congestion that has led to accidents in the past. They highlighted that the Diwali period typically sees a surge in travel as families move to visit relatives and as shoppers flock to malls and street markets offering festive discounts. To further enhance safety, the corporation will deploy additional security personnel at major stations and will run a public awareness campaign reminding riders to keep belongings secure and to avoid overcrowding on trains. The authority also plans to increase the number of cleaning crews to maintain hygiene in stations that experience higher footfall.

For commuters in Delhi, the revised schedule means that late‑night travel after Diwali celebrations will be possible without having to rely on private taxis or buses that often face traffic snarls. The extended hours also provide flexibility for workers in the service sector who may have to adjust their shifts to accommodate the festival. DMRC has urged passengers to plan their journeys in advance, use mobile apps to check real‑time train arrivals, and to wear masks in crowded compartments as part of ongoing health precautions. By offering a more robust service, the metro aims to keep the city moving smoothly during a period when road congestion traditionally spikes.