STN: The Delhi-Meerut RRTS is now complete. The project has moved from construction to operation. Thousands of commuters already use the corridor. It has reduced travel time between Delhi and Meerut. Improved comfort. It has also eased pressure on highways.
Now attention has shifted to the remaining corridors under Phase 1. Many experts and commuters believe the government should release funds quickly. Timely funding will help maintain momentum. It will also prevent delays in tenders and execution.
The Regional Rapid Transit System, or RRTS, is designed for high-speed regional travel. Trains run faster than metro systems. They connect cities across the National Capital Region (NCR). The goal is simple. Reduce congestion. Cut pollution. Improve daily commuting.
Phase 1 Corridors
Phase 1 includes three main corridors:
- Delhi – Meerut (Completed)
- Delhi – Gurugram – Alwar (Tender expected this year)
- Delhi – Panipat – Karnal (Tender expected this year)
The completion of the Delhi-Meerut RRTS has set a benchmark. It has shown that large-scale transport projects can move ahead with proper planning. The next step is to speed up work on the Delhi–Gurugram–Alwar and Delhi–Panipat–Karnal routes.
Both routes will serve thousands of daily office-goers. They will connect industrial hubs. They will also boost real estate and business growth along the corridors.
Delhi-Meerut RRTS Sets Model for Phase 1(B) and Phase 2
The success of the Delhi-Meerut RRTS is expected to guide Phase 1(B) and Phase 2 projects.
Phase 1(B)
- Gurugram – Faridabad – Greater Noida (Target 2027)
- Ghaziabad – Noida – NIA (Target 2027)
These corridors will improve east-west connectivity within NCR. They will also support the upcoming Noida International Airport.
Phase 2 Plans
Phase 2 expands the network further:
- Delhi – Faridabad – Palwal
- Delhi – Rohtak (Extension till Hisar International Airport)
- Ghaziabad – Hapur
- Delhi – Baghpat – Baraut
- Ghaziabad – Bulandshahr
These routes will connect outer NCR towns. Many of these towns depend heavily on road transport today. RRTS can reduce travel time sharply. It can also reduce fuel consumption.
Beyond NCR: Need for Similar Systems in Other Regions
Transport planners also suggest similar systems in other regions. The Chandigarh Metropolitan Region can benefit from RRTS-like corridors:
- Chandigarh – Ambala
- Chandigarh – Patiala
- Chandigarh – Kurukshetra
Other proposed inter-city links include:
- Aligarh – Mathura
- Lucknow – Unnao – Kanpur
- Lucknow – Ayodhya
These routes connect growing cities. They have rising population and traffic. A high-speed regional system can change travel patterns. It can reduce dependence on private vehicles.
Why RRTS Matters for NCR
RRTS can transform travel in NCR. It offers speed. Offers comfort. It offers reliability. Daily commuters can save hours every week. Businesses can expand beyond city limits. Housing demand can spread to nearby towns.
The Delhi-Meerut RRTS has already shown these benefits. Property demand along the corridor has increased. Office travel has become easier. Road congestion has reduced on key stretches.
Now the focus must shift to funding and timely tenders. With strong policy support, Phase 1 corridors can move forward quickly. A connected NCR will support economic growth for decades.
FAQs
A: RRTS trains can run at speeds up to 180 km/h. Operational speeds are lower for safety and efficiency.
A: The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) is executing the project.
A: RRTS covers longer distances. It runs at higher speeds. It connects cities, not just urban areas.
A: Funding comes from the central government, state governments, and multilateral agencies.
A: Fares are expected to be higher than Metro but lower than private car travel costs over similar distances.
