On October 20, 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to inaugurate a 17-kilometer stretch of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), introducing India’s first regional train service, RapidX. Here are ten essential points to bring you up to speed on this high-speed regional rail system, poised to reduce the travel time from Delhi to Meerut to just 60 minutes.
The Brainchild of NCRTC
The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC), a joint venture involving the Indian Government and the states of Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, is the driving force behind RRTS. This collaboration was formalized through an MOU on June 29, 2011, leading to the establishment of NCRTC as a company on August 21, 2013.
Construction Commences in 2019
Construction of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor began in 2019, with the first glimpse of the RRTS train unveiled a year later.
Speed and Efficiency
The RRTS boasts an operational speed of 160 kilometers per hour, doubling the Metro’s speed of 80 kph. While a Metro train requires three hours to cover 100 kilometers, the RRTS accomplishes the same journey in just one hour.
India’s First RRTS
The Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Corridor marks India’s first RRTS project. Subsequent RRTS corridors include Delhi-Gurugram-SNB-Alwar and Delhi-Panipat.
Total Length and Phase One
The Delhi-Meerut corridor spans 82 kilometers, covered in just one hour, featuring 24 stations. The initial phase, covering 17 kilometers, includes stations at Sahibabad, Ghaziabad, Guldhar, Duhai, and the Duhai Depot.
Multi-Modal Integration
NCRTC has collaborated with the central government, four state governments, and various transport systems to develop deep multi-modal integration at RRTS stations, connecting them with metro lines, airports, and bus terminals.
Project Cost
The project was executed at a cost of ₹30,274 crore, with funding from the Asian Development Bank, New Development Bank, and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.
Commuter-Centric Amenities
RRTS trains offer commuter-friendly amenities, including overhead luggage racks, Wi-Fi, and mobile and laptop charging at each seat. One premium-class car per train features wider seats, more legroom, and coat hangers. Vending machines are also available on board.
Gender Inclusivity
NCRTC emphasizes gender inclusivity by ensuring more women employees than men will be involved in the operations of the 17-kilometer primary section of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor. This step aims to break traditional gender norms in the transport sector.
‘Lost and Found’ Center
The Ghaziabad Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) station houses a dedicated ‘Lost and Found’ center to expedite the recovery of misplaced belongings.
Last Modified: February 22, 2024