Cable Theft Disrupts Services on Newly Opened Delhi Metro Pink Line Corridor, Train Speeds Restricted
New Delhi, March 16, 2026: Train operations on a recently opened section of the Delhi Metro were affected after signalling cables were stolen from the track between Bhalswa and Majlis Park. The theft disrupted the signalling system used to regulate train movement, forcing trains to operate at a restricted speed of about 25 kmph instead of the usual 60-80 kmph, leading to delays for commuters .
Incident Details
The problem was detected early in the morning around 4:20 am before regular passenger services began, when the signal controller at Majlis Park station reported missing cables. Initial assessment by DMRC officials showed that nearly 1,000 metres of signalling cable had been removed from the trackside infrastructure. These cables play an important role in monitoring train movement, transmitting signals, and ensuring safe operation across the metro network .
Suspect Apprehended
Following the alert, teams from the metro security unit and local police searched nearby areas and noticed a group attempting to burn wires in a forested patch to extract copper from the stolen cables. Police arrested one suspect identified as Seikh Safiq from Jahangirpuri, while others present at the spot escaped. Burnt pieces of cable measuring around 170-180 metres were recovered from the site .
Based on a complaint filed by a DMRC official, police registered a case under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Delhi Metro Railway (Operation and Maintenance) Act. Investigators have also launched further raids to trace other people suspected to be involved .
Affected Corridor
The affected section forms part of the Pink Line expansion connecting Deepali Chowk and Majlis Park. The corridor had recently become operational as part of the Delhi Metro expansion, inaugurated along with another stretch linking Majlis Park with Maujpur Babarpur, aimed at improving connectivity in the northern and eastern parts of Delhi .
Restoration and Preventive Measures
Officials stated that restoration work on the damaged signalling infrastructure would be carried out during non-operational hours after passenger services end to minimize daytime disruption. Technical teams were deployed to reinstall cables and check signalling systems across the affected stretch .
To address the recurring issue of cable theft targeting metro infrastructure, DMRC has been exploring ways to reduce the use of copper in certain systems. In some sections, the agency has begun replacing copper components with aluminium alternatives that have lower resale value, reducing theft risk .
Officials are also reviewing security arrangements on newly opened metro corridors, strengthening surveillance of vulnerable stretches, especially in isolated track areas, with additional patrols and monitoring to prevent similar incidents in the future .