Moscow Metro, the world's longest circular metro line, celebrates 90 years

Malay Mail

20-05-2025

Established in 1935, the Moscow Metro has grown into one of the world's largest urban transit networks, spanning over 550 kilometres and serving more than 8 million passengers daily. Its 90th anniversary is being celebrated with historical exhibitions and continued advancements in digital transport technology.
MOSCOW, May 20 — The Moscow Metro has reached its 90th year of operation, marking a significant milestone for one of the world's largest and longest-running urban transit systems.
Since its inauguration in 1935, the system has expanded to cover over 550 kilometres of track, with 302 stations, serving an average of 8 million passenger trips per weekday.
Maksim Liksutov, Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry, said, 'The opening of the Metro in 1935 was a historic event for our capital and the entire country. Even then, decades ago, the workers and builders set the highest standards for passenger service. Today, in line with the goals set by Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin, we continue to uphold that standard. More than 65,000 people are currently employed by the Moscow Metro. They not only help serve millions of passengers every day, but also work hard to earn the continued trust of Muscovites, so that each journey leaves a positive impression. I want to thank every employee for their dedication and wish them continued success.'
Initially launched with a single line spanning 11.5 kilometres and 13 stations, the Moscow Metro has expanded steadily over the past nine decades. In 2024 alone, the system transported 2.7 billion passengers.
Modernisation has been a continuous process. Today, more than 75 per cent of trains are newly developed models equipped with features such as automated speed control, open gangways, and updated safety systems. These advancements enable high-frequency operations, with intervals as short as 90 seconds during peak hours.
The system has also implemented digital ticketing solutions, including smart cards, virtual ticket options, and biometric payments, and are now used in the majority of daily trips. These technologies aim to streamline passenger flow and improve accessibility.
To mark the anniversary, a series of events and exhibitions were organised in the city, highlighting both the history and evolution of the metro system. Public displays featured restored early-generation trains and archival materials documenting the network's development.
As one of the world's most heavily used metro systems, the Moscow Metro continues to play a central role in urban transportation, reflecting broader trends in infrastructure investment, technological integration, and mass transit development over the past century.