Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the inauguration of a 17-kilometer-long extension of the Delhi–Ghaziabad–Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridor, stretching from Duhai to Modi Nagar North, on Wednesday. The event also saw the flag-off of the Namo Bharat train from the Muradnagar RRTS station, conducted via video conference from Kolkata.
Extended Route Adds Three Stations
Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri graced the inauguration ceremony alongside PM Modi. The newly inaugurated extension signifies the completion of an additional 17 kilometers beyond the operational section of the Delhi–Ghaziabad–Meerut RRTS corridor. This extension incorporates three stations: Murad Nagar, Modi Nagar South, and Modi Nagar North.
According to the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC), "With the addition of this 17-kilometer segment, Namo Bharat services will seamlessly operate along 34 kilometers of the Delhi-Meerut RRTS corridor, covering eight stations from Sahibabad to Modi Nagar North."
Enhanced Convenience for Commuters
Once the Duhai to Modi Nagar (North) section becomes operational, commuters will enjoy the convenience of traveling on the RRTS from Sahibabad to Modi Nagar (North), spanning a distance of 34 kilometers and encompassing eight stations in Ghaziabad district.
Officials have indicated that fare details for the entire 34-kilometer section will be announced shortly. The overarching RRTS project, spanning 82 kilometers, comprises a total of 25 stations, with four in Delhi, eight in Ghaziabad district, and 13 in Meerut district, including a local metro module.
India's Premier RRTS Corridor
The foundation stone for India's inaugural RRTS corridor, linking Delhi to Meerut, was laid by the Prime Minister in March 2019. It commenced passenger operations in October 2023.
"The newly added 17-kilometer stretch of the Namo Bharat train service expands the coverage of the Delhi–Meerut RRTS corridor beyond its initial operational priority section. This expansion is poised to enhance regional connectivity, streamlining commuting within the area," stated the NCRTC.
With a design speed of 180 kmph and an operational speed of 160 kmph, the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor, spanning 82 kilometers, is expected to reduce travel time between Delhi and Meerut to less than an hour.
