The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC), which operates the corridor, received the award in the category “Metro Rail with the Best Passenger Service and Satisfaction.” Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal presented the award to NCRTC Managing Director Shalabh Goel.
The recognition highlights the corridor’s role in expanding regional public transport options across the National Capital Region (NCR).
An Award for Regional Passenger Transport
The UMI 2026 recognition reflects the importance of passenger experience as cities expand rapid-transit networks. The Namo Bharat corridor connects Delhi with Ghaziabad and Meerut, offering commuters an alternative to road travel on a route where congestion can affect journey times.
NCRTC also secured first prize in the conference’s Best Exhibitor category for the second consecutive year. Its exhibition showcased the corridor’s infrastructure, transport integration and transit-oriented development initiatives.
India’s First Operational Regional Rapid Transit System
The Delhi–Ghaziabad–Meerut corridor is India’s first operational Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridor. Spanning approximately 82 kilometres, it combines regional rapid-transit services with the 23-kilometre Meerut Metro network, using shared infrastructure.
Namo Bharat services began in October 2023 and were introduced in phases. The full corridor became operational in February 2026, strengthening links between Delhi and urban centres in Uttar Pradesh.
Ridership Crosses 4.8 Crore Passenger Journeys
Since services began, the corridor has recorded more than 4.8 crore passenger journeys and serves over 1.1 lakh commuters daily, according to figures reported by NCRTC. Its highest single-day ridership has exceeded 1.68 lakh passengers.
The trains can operate at speeds of up to 160 kmph and offer air-conditioned coaches, modern stations and interchange facilities. Connections with other transport networks are intended to make journeys across the National Capital Region more convenient for people travelling for work, education and business.
What the Recognition Means for Regional Mobility
The award puts a spotlight on passenger service as an important part of public transport development—not just the construction of faster trains and new infrastructure. Reliable operations, convenient interchanges and a comfortable travel experience can influence how commuters choose to travel between cities.
As regional transport networks expand, the Namo Bharat corridor provides an example of how rapid transit can connect residential areas with employment and educational centres while supporting wider urban development.
