Posted on February 24, 2026
India’s flagship regional rapid transit system, the Namo Bharat Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) connecting Delhi and Meerut, achieved a major milestone on Monday by ferrying over 1 lakh passengers on its first full day of commercial operations since its nationwide launch. This marks the highest single-day ridership recorded on the corridor to date, highlighting strong public acceptance and enthusiasm for the new high-speed service.
The significant surge in ridership comes a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi formally inaugurated the complete 82-kilometre Delhi–Meerut corridor and associated Meerut Metro link on Sunday evening. The project, operated by the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC), officially commenced full commercial services across all stations and sections on Monday, allowing commuters to travel end-to-end for the first time.
Record Footfall and Festive Atmosphere
From early morning, stations along the RRTS route witnessed large crowds of commuters keen to experience the new service. Videos shared by onlookers and passengers showed packed platforms, orderly queues at ticket counters, and excited travellers taking selfies and photos on board the modern trains. In several clips, passengers were heard chanting patriotic slogans like “Bharat Mata ki Jai”, reflecting the celebratory mood throughout the day.
At Begumpul station in Meerut, one of the major transit hubs on the route, crowds swelled on the concourse before sunrise, with families, students, professionals and elderly citizens eager to board the sleek, air-conditioned RRTS coaches. Some commuters even scattered flower petals on the platform as the trains arrived, a vivid symbol of public fascination with the high-speed service.
NCRTC officials had anticipated the strong turnout, stating that with the last scheduled train departure around 10 pm on Monday, the total ridership was expected to surpass the 1 lakh mark, a forecast that was confirmed as the day progressed. The corporation described the figure as the highest ever ridership recorded on the corridor since services began.
What Makes Namo Bharat Stand Out
Designed to operate at speeds of up to 180 km/h, the Namo Bharat RRTS represents a significant leap in India’s urban rail infrastructure. It aims to drastically reduce travel times between Delhi and key urban centers such as Sahibabad, Ghaziabad, Modinagar and Meerut, compared with traditional rail and road options. The full stretch now provides seamless connectivity between the national capital and important satellite cities, offering a fast, efficient and climate-friendly alternative for daily commuters.
In addition to its high speeds, the RRTS trains are equipped with modern passenger amenities including comfortable seating, air-conditioning and enhanced safety provisions. The corridor also connects with the newly inaugurated Meerut Metro line, further strengthening intra-city connectivity.
Positive Commuter Response
Passengers praised the system’s punctuality, cleanliness and convenience, with many expressing their intention to incorporate the RRTS into their daily travel routines. Commuters reported that the reduced travel time, compared with road journeys that often take several hours due to congestion on NH-24 and connecting highways, makes the system especially attractive for office-goers, students and frequent travelers.
One daily commuter commented on the ease of the journey, noting that the RRTS provided a smooth, stress-free ride that significantly cut down the time previously spent on buses or personal vehicles. Such positive feedback underscores the potential long-term impact of the RRTS on the region’s transport landscape and commuters’ quality of life.
Looking Ahead
With the record turnout on its first full day, the Namo Bharat RRTS corridor is poised to become a central pillar of regional connectivity and sustainable transport across the National Capital Region. NCRTC officials said ridership will continue to be monitored, and adjustments may be made to further enhance service efficiency and passenger experience as demand stabilizes in the coming weeks and months.
As India continues to invest in modern mass transit solutions, the success of the Namo Bharat project could serve as a template for future rapid transit initiatives in other metropolitan clusters across the country.