Tehran Metro

The Tehran Metro (Persian: متروی تهران) is a rapid transit system serving Tehran, the capital city of Iran. It is one of the largest metro systems in the Middle East and plays a crucial role in the public transportation network of the city. The system is operated by the Tehran Urban and Suburban Railway Company and consists of seven lines with a total length of 253 kilometers.

History

The concept of a metro system in Tehran dates back to the 1970s, but construction was delayed due to the Iranian Revolution and the subsequent Iran-Iraq War. The first line of the Tehran Metro was inaugurated in 2000, marking a significant milestone in the city's transportation infrastructure.

Lines and Stations

The Tehran Metro consists of seven lines:

• Line 1 (Red Line): Runs north-south from Tajrish to Kahrizak, covering 37 stations.
• Line 2 (Blue Line): Extends from Farhangsara to Sadeghieh, with 22 stations.
• Line 3 (Dark Blue Line): Connects Azadegan to Ghaem, with 26 stations.
• Line 4 (Yellow Line): Runs from Eram-e Sabz to Shahid Kolahdooz, with 19 stations.
• Line 5 (Green Line): A suburban line from Tehran (Sadeghieh) to Karaj, with 11 stations.
• Line 6 (Purple Line): Currently partially operational, with plans for full extension.
• Line 7 (Brown Line): The newest line, with ongoing expansions.

Operations

The Tehran Metro operates from 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM daily. Trains run at intervals of 2 to 5 minutes during peak hours and 5 to 10 minutes during off-peak hours. The system is known for its affordability and efficiency, providing a reliable means of transportation for millions of commuters.

Future Developments

Plans for the expansion of the Tehran Metro include the extension of existing lines and the construction of new lines to accommodate the growing population and urban sprawl. The government aims to increase the total length of the network to over 400 kilometers by 2030.

Challenges

The Tehran Metro faces several challenges, including overcrowding during peak hours, maintenance of aging infrastructure, and the need for modernization of facilities. Efforts are underway to address these issues through investment in new technologies and infrastructure upgrades.

Environmental Impact

The metro system significantly reduces traffic congestion and air pollution in Tehran, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable urban environment. It is a key component of the city's efforts to combat climate change and improve air quality.

Also see

• Public transport in Tehran
• Tehran Bus Rapid Transit
• Tehran Urban and Suburban Railway Company
• Iranian transportation infrastructure