In a landmark moment for urban mobility in India’s National Capital Region (NCR), Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday flagged off the Meerut Metro and the high-speed Namo Bharat train at Shatabdi Nagar station. This inauguration strengthens regional connectivity, marking a significant step in the government’s push for efficient public transport.
Upon arriving in Meerut, PM Modi was warmly welcomed by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and BJP state unit chief Pankaj Chaudhary. He then proceeded to Shatabdi Nagar Namo Bharat station, where he gave the green signal to both the metro and the train amid cheers from the gathered crowd.
The Prime Minister dedicated the 82-kilometer Delhi-Meerut Namo Bharat corridor to the nation. He also inaugurated remaining sections of the RRTS, including a 5-km stretch from Sarai Kale Khan to New Ashok Nagar in Delhi and a 21-km section from Meerut South to Modipuram in Uttar Pradesh.
PM Modi took a ride on the metro up to Meerut South station, interacting with passengers and students onboard. During the journey, two students proudly showed him some photographs, adding a personal touch to the event.
Capable of speeds up to 180 kmph, Namo Bharat is India’s first Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS). It will drastically cut travel times between Delhi and key urban centers like Sahibabad, Ghaziabad, Modinagar, and Meerut.
The corridor’s initial station at Sarai Kale Khan serves as a strategic multi-modal hub, seamlessly connecting to Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station, Delhi Metro’s Pink Line, Vir Hakikat Rai ISBT, and the Ring Road. The other three newly operational stations—Shatabdi Nagar, Begumpul, and Modipuram—are located in Meerut.
This seamless integration of Namo Bharat and Meerut Metro on shared infrastructure sets a new benchmark for integrated urban and regional transport in India. It promises faster inter-city travel and smooth intra-city movement, reducing road congestion and significantly lowering vehicle emissions.