New Delhi, Oct 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the first corridor of India’s Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) in Sahibabad, Uttar Pradesh, flagging off the RapidX train, now known as NaMo Bharat. This landmark event marks the introduction of high-speed regional rail services, offering efficient intercity commuting with departures every 15 minutes, expandable to every five minutes when necessary.
The launch comes after PM Modi faced criticism from the Congress party for renaming the train service, with General Secretary Jairam Ramesh accusing the Prime Minister of self-obsession. This renaming follows other controversial rebrandings, such as the renaming of a cricket stadium in Ahmedabad after PM Modi.
PM @narendramodi is on board the Regional Rapid Train Namo Bharat with co-passengers who are sharing their experiences, including on how this train service will have a positive impact. pic.twitter.com/pIsZ5vnXcM
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 20, 2023
The inaugural RRTS corridor covers a 17-km priority section within the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS Corridor. This segment is set to commence passenger operations on October 21 and encompasses five stations: Sahibabad, Ghaziabad, Guldhar, Duhai, and Duhai Depot.
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Each RapidX train consists of six coaches, including a premium coach, with one coach reserved for women. The premium coach offers distinctive features such as differently colored seats, the possibility of installing future vending machines, and commuter-friendly amenities like reclining seats, coat hooks, magazine holders, and footrests.
To enhance safety, all RRTS stations are equipped with platform screen doors (PSDs) that are seamlessly integrated with train doors and the signaling system. This advancement ensures a safer and more efficient commuter experience.
