The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) has introduced eight additional Namo Bharat trips during peak hours on the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut route, effective from Friday. This decision aims to accommodate the growing ridership demand exacerbated by rising temperatures and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal for austerity.
Additional Train Sets and Revised Schedule
As part of this initiative, the corporation has also deployed two additional train sets. Under the revised schedule, four extra trips will operate during morning peak hours between 8 am and 11 am, while another four trips will run during evening peak hours from 5 pm to 7 pm, connecting Sarai Kale Khan and Meerut South stations, according to an NCRTC official.
Ridership and Comfort
The Delhi-Meerut Namo Bharat corridor currently records an average daily ridership of nearly one lakh commuters. The official stated that the new rail trips will encourage the public to comply with nationwide advisories promoting reduced dependence on private vehicles. “Riding on the Namo Bharat is a comfortable way to commute, especially during the intense heatwave conditions sweeping the region,” he added.
Improved Frequency and Fleet
Previously, Namo Bharat trains operated once every 15 minutes. With the new schedule, trains will now be available at intervals of 9 minutes. The operating fleet on the corridor has increased from 11 to 13 trains. Each train comprises six coaches: four standard coaches, one premium coach with reclining seats, and one reserved for women. The total seating capacity of each train is 407, while the standing capacity is 1,061.
Occupancy Trends
The average occupancy in standard and women coaches of Namo Bharat trains, which stood at 75% in 2023, has risen to approximately 85%. Meanwhile, the occupancy of premium coaches has increased from 25% in 2023 to 40% this year, reflecting growing preference for enhanced comfort.
