n an exciting development for commuters in the Delhi-NCR region, the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) has initiated trial runs on the Sahibabad-New Ashok Nagar section of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS). This is a significant milestone, marking the first time the Namo Bharat train has entered Delhi. The project aims to connect the existing Sahibabad-Meerut South corridor seamlessly with the new Delhi section.
A New Era of Connectivity
The trial run was inaugurated in the presence of NCRTC’s Managing Director Shalabh Goyal and other senior officials. During this phase, the Namo Bharat train was manually operated to assess the integrity of the civil structures. As testing progresses, NCRTC plans to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of various subsystems, including tracks, signaling systems, platform screen doors (PSD), and overhead power supply systems, ensuring a smooth integration for future operations.
In the upcoming months, extensive trial runs will include high-speed tests, preparing the system for a successful launch.
The Route and Its Benefits
The section between Sahibabad and New Ashok Nagar spans approximately 12 kilometers and features two RRTS stations: Anand Vihar and New Ashok Nagar. Once fully operational, the Namo Bharat train service will allow passengers to travel from New Ashok Nagar to Meerut South in under 40 minutes, making it a rapid and efficient commuting option. This connection promises to drastically reduce travel time for residents, facilitating faster access to Delhi and its neighboring areas.
Anand Vihar: A Transit Hub
Anand Vihar is set to become one of the busiest transit centers on the corridor. It will connect with two metro lines (Blue and Pink), Anand Vihar railway station, and two inter-state bus terminals (ISBTs)—one heading toward Delhi and the other toward Kaushambi in Uttar Pradesh. Given its strategic location, Anand Vihar is expected to witness a high volume of daily commuters.
To enhance passenger convenience, NCRTC is working on a seamless integration of various modes of transport at Anand Vihar RRTS station. This will position the station as a model for multi-modal transport integration, offering an effortless transfer experience for travelers.
Enhancing Accessibility
The New Ashok Nagar RRTS station is conveniently located less than 100 meters from the New Ashok Nagar Metro station. To facilitate this connection, NCRTC is constructing a foot-over bridge (FOB) that will link the concourse levels of both stations. Additionally, two more FOBs are being developed: one toward Chilla Village and Mayur Vihar Extension, and another near the ancient Shiva temple. These structures will provide easier access for local residents, ensuring they can reach the station with minimal hassle.
Currently, the Namo Bharat train services operate along a 42-kilometer stretch from Sahibabad to Meerut South, which includes nine stations: Sahibabad, Ghaziabad, Gulhars, Duhai, Duhai Depot, Muradnagar, Modi Nagar South, Modi Nagar North, and Meerut South.
With the addition of services from Sahibabad to New Ashok Nagar, the total length of the operational RRTS corridor will increase to 54 kilometers, featuring 11 RRTS stations. Within the Delhi section, there will be three stations: New Ashok Nagar, Anand Vihar, and Sarai Kale Khan. The construction between New Ashok Nagar and Sarai Kale Khan is currently in its final stages, with track laying activities underway.
Looking Ahead
The entire 82-kilometer corridor is expected to be operational by June 2025. Once complete, passengers will be able to travel between Delhi and Meerut in under an hour. This development promises not only to enhance mobility in the region but also to foster economic growth by making commuting easier and more efficient.
Conclusion
The launch of the trial run for the RRTS marks a pivotal moment for urban transportation in India. With its focus on speed, efficiency, and integration, the Namo Bharat train is set to revolutionize how people commute in the Delhi-NCR region. As we look forward to its full operation, residents can anticipate a future of quicker journeys and enhanced connectivity. This innovative project underscores the commitment to developing sustainable transport solutions that cater to the needs of the growing population in India. Stay tuned for more updates as this transformative project progresses!
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