India to Outpace US Metro Network in Record Time: Minister's Bold Claim

India is rapidly expanding its metro network and is expected to surpass the US in length within two to three years, according to Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal. During a regional meeting, support was extended for urban development in Telangana, and new projects were discussed.

India is poised to surpass the United States in metro network length within two to three years, according to Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal. Speaking at a meeting of Urban Development Ministers, he lauded India's rapid pace in expanding metro networks across 24 cities since 2004-05.

Despite the US and China's earlier focus on metro infrastructure, India has swiftly extended its network, currently reaching 1,100 kilometers in length. Lal highlighted urbanisation's role in future economic contributions, estimating cities will represent 80% of national GDP by 2050.

The meeting also addressed development initiatives in Telangana, where local leaders urged support for pending projects. Lal assured backing for various urban projects, including Hyderabad's metro expansion and riverfront development under national schemes like AMRUT and the Urban Challenge Fund.

(With inputs from agencies.)