Meerut Metro set to be first in India to run on rapid rail corridor, trials begin

The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) on Sunday began trial runs of the highly-anticipated Meerut Metro, marking a significant milestone toward initiating metro services in the city.

This will be the first time in India that a local metro system in Meerut will operate on the same RRTS corridor where the semi-high-speed Namo Bharat train runs. The RRTS is currently operational from New Ashok Nagar in Delhi to Meerut South, with the full line expected to be operational by June 2025.

Today, the Meerut Metro trials involved operating various trains at different speeds on the section between Meerut South and just before the Meerut Central station. It aimed to evaluate the train’s performance and the integration of various technologies.

During the trial run, the train’s tracks and traction systems were tested. Initially, manual operation under the Train Control Management System (TCMS) was implemented.

Starting from Meerut South, the train ran slowly to the underground section just before Meerut Central and returned at a gradually increased speed. The trials have been conducted at speeds ranging from 40 km/h to a design speed of 135 km/h and will continue until the metro becomes fully operational.

The trials adhered to international standards, involving various tests to ensure passenger safety. Weight tests with sandbags, dynamic safety checks and evaluating riding comfort were integral components of the trial.

Trains will navigate different curves and terrains of the corridor to assess these factors. Moreover, tests to verify the coordination of integrated performance involving subsystems like signalling, platform screen doors (PSD) and the overhead supply system were being conducted.

Meerut Metro’s 12 train sets, each consisting of three coaches, are manufactured at the Savli manufacturing plant in Gujarat. Of these, 10 have arrived at the Duhai depot.

The upcoming corridor spans 23 km, with an 18 km elevated section and a 5 km underground section, and has 13 stations. The NCRTC aims to make the entire corridor operational for the public by this year, after completing the civil work across stations.

The Meerut Metro’s design emphasises maximum comfort, safety and security for passengers. With ergonomically designed seating, luggage racks, grab handles, USB charging ports and air-conditioning – the same features found in the Namo Bharat train.