India’s Metro Exceeds Expectations
“I didn’t know that some cities in India like Agra and Delhi actually have a very decent metro system,” said German travel vlogger Alex Welder in a viral Instagram video. Before visiting, he expected Indian public transport to be chaotic, with “old buses and trains and noisy tuk-tuks and rickshaws.” However, after using the metro in cities like Delhi and Agra, he was surprised by its efficiency, cleanliness, and modern infrastructure.
Comparable to the Best in the World
Welder praised India’s metro system, comparing it favorably to those in Europe and Asia. “Delhi’s metro has features like platform screen doors, phone charging points, and designated seats for women and the elderly—similar to what I have seen in South Korea, Japan, and China,” he said. He noted that the trains were well-maintained, affordable, and easy to navigate. He also appreciated the clear announcements and signage, making it convenient for travelers.
A Comfortable and Convenient Ride
Speaking about his commuting experience, he shared, “I stayed in South Delhi, and I was also pleasantly surprised that I got a place to sit 80-90% of the time, as long as I didn’t ride the metros at rush hour and stayed away from the city center and tourist hotspots.” He also highlighted the availability of food and shopping options at metro stations, calling them “LOTS of food and shopping options.” He mentioned that the metro was well-ventilated, making it comfortable even in hot weather.
Why Isn’t India’s Metro More Popular?
Welder expressed surprise that India’s metro systems don’t get more attention in travel content. “I haven’t seen any content creator showing the metro system in Indian cities. Usually, it’s just the hectic road traffic that you see,” he remarked. His video has since gone viral, sparking discussions online, with many agreeing that India’s metro deserves more global recognition.
