On January 5, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a transformative addition to India’s transportation landscape by inaugurating a 13-km section of the Rapid Rail Transit System (RRTS) between New Ashok Nagar in Delhi and Sahibabad in Uttar Pradesh. This marks another milestone in the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Namo Bharat Corridor, a project set to redefine urban connectivity, reduce travel time, and provide a world-class commuting experience.
Key Highlights of the Inauguration
Prime Minister’s Ride on the Namo Bharat Train
Prime Minister Modi began the day’s proceedings with a ride on the Namo Bharat Train from Sahibabad RRTS Station to New Ashok Nagar RRTS Station. During the journey, he interacted with passengers, including enthusiastic children, many of whom were experiencing the train’s state-of-the-art features for the first time. This ride symbolized the government’s commitment to delivering efficient and modern infrastructure for the public.
Enhanced Connectivity
The newly inaugurated section connects Sahibabad to New Ashok Nagar, integrating the National Capital with key areas in Uttar Pradesh. With this addition, commuters can now travel from New Ashok Nagar to Meerut South in under 40 minutes. This is a significant improvement, cutting travel time by about one-third compared to traditional modes of transport.
Namo Bharat Corridor: A Game-Changer in Indian Transit
About the Project
The Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor, popularly known as the Namo Bharat Train, is a visionary project initiated in March 2019 when Prime Minister Modi laid its foundation stone. With an estimated cost of ₹30,000 crore, the project aims to bring global standards of rapid transit to India. It is the country’s first semi-high-speed regional rail service, designed to connect major urban centers while alleviating congestion and pollution.
Features of the Namo Bharat Train
- Speed and Efficiency: The trains operate at a maximum speed of 180 km/h, ensuring swift connectivity across regions.
- Comfortable Travel: The train offers both standard and premium coaches, with features like air-conditioning, ergonomic seating, and ample luggage space.
- Smart Ticketing System: Passengers can opt for contactless ticketing using smart cards or mobile applications, streamlining the boarding process.
- Sustainability: The system incorporates energy-efficient practices, including regenerative braking and solar-powered station facilities.
Fare Structure and Public Accessibility
Starting from 5 p.m. on January 5, 2025, the Namo Bharat trains began serving the public at a frequency of 15 minutes. The fare structure is designed to cater to diverse commuting needs:
- Standard Coach: ₹150 for a journey from New Ashok Nagar to Meerut South.
- Premium Coach: ₹225 for the same route, offering added luxury and privacy.
State-of-the-Art Stations
The newly inaugurated section includes two operational stations in Delhi:
- New Ashok Nagar Station: The gateway to the Namo Bharat corridor from Delhi.
- Anand Vihar Station: A critical hub for passengers connecting to other modes of transport.
Two additional stations in Delhi — Sarai Kale Khan and Jangpura — are slated to become operational by April and May 2025, respectively. These stations are meticulously designed with modern amenities, including spacious waiting areas, advanced security systems, and seamless integration with other transport networks.
Impact on Commuters and Regional Development
Time-Saving Benefits
With the reduction in travel time, the Namo Bharat Train is expected to significantly enhance productivity for daily commuters. Professionals traveling between Delhi and Meerut can now save valuable hours, contributing to better work-life balance and increased economic activity.
Boost to Regional Economy
The RRTS corridor is not just a transportation project; it’s a catalyst for regional growth. By improving connectivity, it opens new opportunities for businesses, education, and tourism. The corridor is also expected to attract investments in real estate and commercial enterprises along its route.
Environmental Advantages
One of the project’s key goals is to reduce carbon emissions by promoting public transportation. With fewer vehicles on the road, the corridor will contribute to cleaner air and a healthier environment.
A Vision Realized: The Government’s Commitment
The inauguration of this additional section underscores the government’s focus on developing world-class infrastructure. The Namo Bharat Train is a testament to India’s growing capabilities in executing large-scale, high-tech projects. It aligns with the ‘Make in India’ initiative, as significant components of the train and infrastructure were manufactured domestically.
