Get ready for a game-changer in regional connectivity! The much-anticipated Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), popularly known as Namo Bharat, is on the cusp of full operationalization, promising to slash travel time between Delhi’s Sarai Kale Khan and Meerut’s Modipuram to an astounding 45 minutes. Officials from the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) have confirmed that the entire 82-kilometre corridor is set to be fully operational by the end of June 2025.
This development marks a significant milestone in India’s urban transportation landscape, bringing world-class, high-speed regional travel to millions. The 82-km corridor, a brainchild of the NCRTC, aims to decongest road traffic and provide a comfortable, efficient, and sustainable transit alternative.
The Final Stretch Nears Completion
While a 55-kilometre stretch with 11 stations is already operational, work on the remaining 27-kilometre portion is progressing at a rapid pace. This includes a 4.5-km elevated segment between Sarai Kale Khan and New Ashok Nagar in Delhi, and a 23-km section between Meerut South and Modipuram in Meerut. Trial runs are currently underway on these crucial remaining sections, ensuring all systems are in place for passenger services.
The final leg of the corridor in Meerut features three pivotal stations: Shatabdi Nagar (elevated), Begumpul (underground), and Modipuram (at-grade). Begumpul, a major underground station, is particularly significant as it will serve both Namo Bharat trains and the local Meerut Metro services, showcasing a unique infrastructure sharing model in India. Modipuram, the last station, is strategically located on National Highway-58 and will feature a Foot Over Bridge for seamless pedestrian access.
A Phased Rollout Leading to Full Connectivity
The Namo Bharat corridor has been expanding its reach in phases. The 17-km priority section between Sahibabad and Duhai Depot was inaugurated on October 21, 2023. This was followed by the opening of the Sahibabad to New Ashok Nagar segment in Delhi on January 5, 2025, marking the first time Namo Bharat trains entered the national capital. The subsequent expansions have steadily brought more of the corridor into operation, gradually reducing travel times and increasing accessibility for commuters.
Meerut Metro: An Integrated Network
Adding to the revolutionary nature of the project, the Meerut Metro, a 23-km local service, will operate on the same infrastructure as the Namo Bharat trains between Meerut South and Modipuram. This innovative approach of sharing a common corridor for both regional and local metro services is a first for India, promising seamless last-mile connectivity within Meerut. The Meerut Metro line will comprise 13 stations, with three being underground.
Passenger Benefits and Future Outlook
The full operationalization of the Delhi-Meerut Namo Bharat corridor will not only drastically cut down travel time but also offer a host of benefits, including enhanced safety with advanced signalling systems like ETCS Level-2, comfortable and modern coaches, and seamless inter-modal integration with other public transport networks. The NCRTC has also partnered with various mobility service providers to support last-mile connectivity, ensuring a hassle-free journey for commuters.
With trial runs successfully progressing and the final stretches nearing completion, the dream of a 45-minute journey between Delhi and Meerut is set to become a reality by the end of June. This transformative project is poised to redefine regional mobility, fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life for millions across the National Capital Region.