Namo Bharat Rapid Rail Records Near-Perfect Punctuality Since 2023 Inception
Since the rapid rail services commenced operations in 2023, the Namo Bharat trains have achieved an impressive punctuality rate of nearly 99%. This high-performance metric underscores the reliability of the commuter service, which operates daily from 6 am to 10 pm, with trains arriving at intervals of 15 minutes. To date, at least two crore passengers have utilized this facility, highlighting its growing popularity and trust among commuters.
Operational Excellence Amid Adverse Weather Conditions
An official from the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC), the entity responsible for executing the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut regional rapid transit system project, emphasized that operational consistency has been maintained despite challenging winter conditions in Delhi-NCR, including dense fog. "Low visibility severely impacted road-based travel, leading to delays, congestion, and accidents," the official stated. "Several trains on conventional networks experienced delays, and flights were rescheduled. However, Namo Bharat continues to complete its journeys on time, ensuring predictable and uninterrupted travel for commuters."
The official further noted that the system's ability to remain punctual during adverse conditions, such as heavy rain, has been demonstrated repeatedly. This resilience is a testament to the robust infrastructure and management practices in place.
Round-the-Clock Maintenance and Advanced Technology
To ensure punctual and seamless operations, maintenance and inspection activities are conducted round the clock. After daily operations conclude around 11 pm, these activities begin at the Namo Bharat depot in Ghaziabad's Duhai and continue throughout the night, focusing on safety and reliability. Ahead of the start of daily services, test trains are deployed on the tracks as early as 4 am to verify system readiness, safety protocols, and schedule adherence.
A spokesperson for NCRTC explained, "Namo Bharat train operations are managed through a centralized operations control center. The system is supported by advanced technologies, including ETCS level-2 signalling, a global first, which enhances operational efficiency and ensures safe, seamless, and reliable services for commuters, even in adverse weather conditions."
Climate-Controlled Comfort and Growing Commuter Trust
The service also offers a climate-controlled travel environment, providing relief from harsh summer heat, winter cold, and monsoon humidity. Temperature control systems ensure commuter comfort across seasons, with heating systems operational during winter and air-conditioned coaches offering respite in summer months. "Since the start of operations, more than two crore commuter journeys have been recorded on Namo Bharat, reflecting growing trust in the system's ability to deliver timely and reliable service on a daily basis," the official added.
Current Status and Future Enhancements
Of the total 82 km Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut corridor, a 55 km section across 11 stations from New Ashok Nagar to Meerut South is currently operational. Trial runs on the remaining section were completed last August, but the entire stretch has yet to open. Once the full corridor becomes operational, train frequency is expected to reduce to 10 minutes, and travel time from Sarai Kale Khan in Delhi to Modipuram in Meerut will be approximately 58 minutes.
- Punctuality rate: Nearly 99% since 2023 launch.
- Operational hours: 6 am to 10 pm daily.
- Passenger count: Over 2 crore journeys recorded.
- Technology: ETCS level-2 signalling for enhanced safety.
- Future plans: Increased frequency and reduced travel time upon full corridor completion.
