First time in Indian Railways: Meerut metro and RRTS to operate on same track

New Delhi: For the first time in Indian Railways, regional rapid rail and metro rail will operate on the same track using common infrastructure.

The Meerut Metro and Rapid Rail Transit System (RRTS), also named as Namo Bharat, runs from Meerut South to Modipuram, in Uttar Pradesh on same track.

On this particular 23 km long stretch, Namo Bharat trains will stop at only three stations, while the Meerut Metro will have 13 stations, ensuring extensive connectivity.

The integration of both Namo Bharat and Meerut metro trains including scheduling and signalling systems, was possible with the use of the hybrid Level 3 signalling system based on the European Train Control System (ETCS), leveraging Long-Term Evolution (LTE) radio technology, one of the most advanced signalling frameworks in the world, said an official in the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) said.

The NCRTC operates both the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail Transit System and also Meerut Metro.

"It's an integration with Namo Bharat service with Meerut Metro service, a first of its kind project where Metro as well as Namo Bharat train using the same track," said NCRTC MD Salabh Goel. NCRTC is executing the Namo Bharat and Meerut Metro project.

This is the first global deployment combining the latest ETCS standard, advanced interlocking systems, Platform Screen Doors (PSD), and Automatic Train Operation (ATO) over LTE radio.

The system is designed to enhance train frequency, reduce wait times, and boost capacity by enabling more trains to pass through stations seamlessly and safely.

According to the NCRTC officials, the ETCS Level 2 signalling system allows trains from different operators to run on shared infrastructure, eliminating dependence on a single vendor for future extensions.

LTE-based communication offers high-throughput links for mission-critical data, voice, video, and Internet of Things (IoT) exchanges between trains, trackside equipment, and control centres.

The Namo Bharat train, which is at present under operation from New Ashok Nagar to Meerut South in Uttar Pradesh, roughly 55 kilometres (34.18 miles).

The remaining stretch from Sarai Kale Khan to New Ashok Nagar (5km) and from Meerut South to Modipuram in Uttar Pradesh (21km) are ready for commissioning. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to launch this stretch and Meerut Metro soon, sources said.

With a design speed of 180 kmph and a maximum operational speed of 160 kmph, Namo Bharat trains are a fast, comfortable, reliable and safe mode of transport, available every 15 minutes at the station.

This system is different from conventional Railway as it does not operate on a fixed timetable or require a seat reservation. It is also different from the metro transit service as it is catering to passengers looking to travel relatively longer distances with fewer stops and at a higher speed.