One morning in the month of December in the winter of 2002, the same train which showed the dream of modern public transport to the capital Delhi, TS #01 is still serving the passengers with the same dedication. On 24 December 2025, Delhi Metro is completing 23 years of its successful operation and its first train TS#01 remains the most living witness of this historic journey.
Witness the historic launch of Delhi Metro
Anuj Dayal, Principal Executive Director, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), said that with the commencement of operations of Delhi Metro in December 2002, TS #01 wrote a new chapter in the transport history of the capital. It was not just a train, but was the foundation of India’s most successful mass transit system. Even today, after 23 years, this train remains a proud part of the huge fleet of Delhi Metro.
Changed form and increased capacity with time
Dayal told that initially TS #01 was a four-coach train, but in view of the increasing number of passengers, it was made of six coaches in the year 2014 and then in 2023, it was made of eight coaches. This change reflects Delhi Metro’s visionary planning and ability to adapt to the needs of passengers.
Achievements of TS#01 in statistics
Since 2002, TS#01 has traveled approximately 2.9 million kilometers. During this period, it has transported more than 60 million passengers safely to their destination. The doors of the train have opened and closed about 2.4 million times so far, which is a proof of its continuous service.
Journey from Korea to Kolkata and then to Delhi
TS#01 was built by the MRM Consortium of South Korea. After this it was brought to Kolkata by sea route and from there to Delhi through the Indian Railways network. At that time, the estimated cost of this four-coach train was around Rs 24 crore.
environmentally responsible technology
The advanced propulsion system of TS#01 makes it environment friendly. Through regenerative braking technology, this train regenerates approximately 40 percent of its total energy consumption, thereby significantly reducing the carbon footprint.
Mid life rehabilitation in 2024
So far TS#01 has gone through two major overhauls. Thanks to timely improvements made by DMRC’s maintenance team, this train has achieved MDBF of 85,000 km, much higher than the minimum contractual norm of 40,000 km. Mid-life rehabilitation of TS#01 was carried out in the year 2024, which included several modern upgrades keeping in mind the comfort and safety of passengers.
State-of-the-art systems, real-time information and better facilities for passenger safety
The latest IP based passenger announcement and information system was installed in the train. Security was enhanced with CCTV cameras, while an integrated passenger emergency alarm provided additional reassurance to passengers.
Station information, door opening directions and safety videos were made available to passengers through LCD based dynamic route maps and public information boards. Mobile and laptop charging sockets made daily traveling more convenient.
Improving both reliability and aesthetics
The punctuality and reliability of the train was further strengthened by refurbishing the door system, fire detection system and relay panel. Along with this, new painting of interior and cab exterior gave the train a modern and attractive look.
The glorious journey continues even after 23 years
Today, as Delhi Metro completes 23 years of its operations, TS#01 continues to deliver a safe, reliable and comfortable travel experience to passengers with the same energy and commitment. This train is not only a part of the history of Delhi Metro, but also remains a symbol of its bright future.
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