Abstract: The development of Shanghai urban rail transit line network planning and construction operation is briefly summarized. Through analysis based on existing network operation efficacy and efficiency indicators, it is revealed that the current network mainly lacks in aspects of coverage rate, functionality layers and network structure. With international metropolitan area and urban cluster rail transit network development experience in functionality layer and layout, scale and operation organization, it is proposed that Shanghai shall prompt planning and construction of express line network and shall complete Shanghai urban rail transit multi-layer line network structure fast, so that the sustainable development of Shanghai urban space layout in the context of Yangtze River Delta integrated development is supported.