The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) has announced the introduction of 52 additional Namo Bharat train trips on the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut corridor from July 30 to August 14. This move aims to cater to the expected rise in passenger traffic during the Kanwar Yatra, an annual pilgrimage where devotees travel to Haridwar to collect holy water.
The additional services will reduce the train frequency to every eight minutes, down from the current 10-minute interval. This increased frequency will be in effect between Sarai Kale Khan and Modipuram. The NCRTC has stated that the frequency could be increased further if required.
The holy month of Shravan begins on July 30, during which traffic restrictions and diversions are usually imposed on several roads to facilitate the movement of Kanwar pilgrims. This typically affects both public and private transport, making the enhanced Namo Bharat services a vital alternative for commuters.
The Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut corridor currently records an average daily ridership of around one lakh passengers. The NCRTC aims to ensure smooth and comfortable travel for commuters amid the anticipated surge in footfall during the Kanwar Yatra. Alongside the Namo Bharat services, Meerut Metro trains will continue to operate between Meerut South and Modipuram, providing connectivity within the city.
The increased frequency is expected to benefit office-goers, students, and other daily commuters. Namo Bharat will offer a fast, reliable, and punctual alternative for commuters during this period, when road congestion is expected due to traffic restrictions. However, temporary road closures may affect parking facilities at some Namo Bharat stations, and commuters will be informed in advance if such a situation arises.
To minimize inconvenience to commuters, security and passenger management arrangements have been strengthened with support from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) in Delhi and the Uttar Pradesh Special Security Force (UPSSF) in Uttar Pradesh.
