New Delhi: The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) announced the successful completion of a comprehensive trial run of the Namo Bharat train across the entire 82-kilometer corridor connecting Sarai Kale Khan in Delhi to Modipuram in Meerut. The trial marks a significant milestone in the operational readiness of India’s first Namo Bharat corridor, which integrates the Delhi, Ghaziabad, and Meerut regions.
High-Speed Trial Run Completed Within an Hour
The Namo Bharat train covered the entire stretch in under 60 minutes, maintaining its maximum operational speed of 160 km/h while making stops at every station along the route. In a unique operational feat, Namo Bharat trains ran concurrently with Meerut Metro trains during the trial, showcasing the smooth interoperability between the two transit systems.
World-First Advanced Signalling System Proves Successful
A key highlight of the corridor is the deployment of the advanced ETCS Level 3 hybrid signalling system operating over an LTE backbone — a world-first application in transit corridors. This cutting-edge system passed all operational tests without any hindrances, demonstrating the technological robustness and safety of the corridor. Additionally, the signalling system is fully integrated with platform screen doors (PSDs) installed at every station, ensuring enhanced passenger safety.
Partial Operational Stretch and Ongoing Finishing Work
Currently, 55 kilometers of the corridor, encompassing 11 stations, is operational and serving passengers. The remaining segments—4.5 kilometers between Sarai Kale Khan and New Ashok Nagar in Delhi, and approximately 23 kilometers from Meerut South to Modipuram—are undergoing final finishing touches and trial runs in preparation for full commissioning.
Meerut Metro Trial Runs Progress Rapidly
Parallel to the Namo Bharat corridor progress, the Meerut Metro’s trial runs between Meerut South and the Modipuram Depot are advancing swiftly. This segment represents a pioneering effort in India where local metro services will share infrastructure with regional rapid transit trains. The 23 km Meerut Metro section includes 13 stations, with 18 km of elevated tracks and 5 km running underground.
About NCRTC
The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) is a public sector undertaking and a joint venture between the Government of India and the states of Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. Its primary responsibility is to implement the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) project across the National Capital Region (NCR). This project aims to enhance connectivity and promote balanced urban development within the NCR through high-speed regional rail. NCRTC is responsible for designing, developing, implementing, financing, operating, and maintaining the RRTS projects.
