The 82-km Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) Namo Bharat corridor is nearing completion, with around 55 km already operational. This high-speed corridor features a precast slab track system, a modern alternative to conventional ballastless tracks, designed for trains running at up to 160 kmph.
"Final stages of track installation in the entire corridor are expected to be completed soon, marking a major milestone for the project," as stated by official from the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC). Since commencing operations on 21 October 2023, Namo Bharat trains have transported around 66 lakh commuters.
Trial runs between Meerut South and Shatabdi Nagar began in February, and the final section from Anand Vihar to Sarai Kale Khan in Delhi is set to begin trials soon. Meerut will also have a dedicated metro service on the same infrastructure, with extensive trials already in progress. The corridor is predominantly elevated (70 km), with 12 km running underground. The precast slab track system was chosen for its reliability, reduced maintenance, ease of replacement, and sustainability.
Unlike traditional in situ ballastless tracks used in metro systems, the Namo Bharat corridor, with stations every 5-10 km and trains running at 160 kmph, required an advanced system. For this project, 44,000 precast slabs were manufactured at a 45,000 sq. ft. factory in Meerut, equipped with advanced automation and machinery.
The corridor stretches from Sarai Kale Khan in Delhi to Modipuram in Meerut, with 16 Namo Bharat stations and nine additional stations for the Meerut Metro. Delhi’s third RRTS station, Sarai Kale Khan, is expected to be operational by June 2025.