NCRTC Celebrates Three Years of Namo Bharat, Records Over 4.5 Crore Passenger Journeys

The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) celebrated Namo Bharat Diwas 2026 on Sunday, marking three years of operations of the rapid rail service and highlighting its contribution to regional connectivity, sustainable transportation and economic development.

The occasion was attended by Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs and Power Manohar Lal, Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs Tokhan Sahu, NCRTC Chairperson and Secretary, Department of Capital Development, D. Thara, and Secretary, Department of Urban Development, Satendra Singh. NCRTC Managing Director Shalabh Goel, directors and senior officials welcomed the dignitaries.

During the celebrations, NCRTC showcased the project's major milestones, initiatives to strengthen multimodal connectivity and efforts to improve first- and last-mile connections for commuters. The organisation also highlighted sustainability initiatives, including Solar on Track and the development of a 110 MW captive solar power plant, aimed at improving the project's environmental and financial sustainability. A film presented the innovations, achievements and initiatives that have shaped Namo Bharat's journey.

Addressing the gathering, Manohar Lal said Namo Bharat represented the spirit of putting the nation first, alongside the values of dedication, culture and tradition. He described the rapid rail service as a major step towards a new era of regional connectivity and urban transportation.

The minister noted that since Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the service on October 20, 2023, the 82-km Delhi–Ghaziabad–Meerut corridor had recorded more than 4.5 crore passenger journeys. He said the achievement reflected growing public confidence in modern, safe and seamless transportation. He added that improved transport links connect people with new opportunities, accelerate regional development and support economic progress. He also commended NCRTC's officers, engineers, technical experts, employees and workers for their contribution to the project.

Namo Bharat operations began in October 2023 with the inauguration of the 17-km priority section between Sahibabad and Duhai Depot. The remaining sections were opened in phases. On February 22, 2026, the Prime Minister dedicated the entire 82-km corridor to the nation along with Meerut Metro.

The service currently carries more than 1.1 lakh commuters daily and recently recorded its highest-ever single-day ridership of approximately 1.68 lakh passengers. Its fast, frequent and reliable services are helping commuters reach workplaces, educational institutions and economic centres more conveniently, while reducing travel difficulties and saving time.

NCRTC is also preparing for further expansion. The proposed Delhi–Panipat–Karnal and Delhi–Gurugram–Behror corridors are likely to receive approval soon. Meanwhile, the Ghaziabad–Jewar and Noida–Faridabad–Gurugram corridors are at the detailed project report stage.

Speaking on the occasion, Shalabh Goel said NCRTC was established to develop a modern, safe, reliable and environmentally friendly regional transport system. He expressed pride in the organisation's progress in turning its vision into reality and thanked the families of employees for standing by them through challenges.

The event also featured the Annual NCRTC Awards, recognising employees for their exemplary performance, dedication and contribution to implementing and operating Namo Bharat. The awards celebrated individual achievements as well as teamwork. Music and dance performances added a cultural dimension to the celebrations.

NCRTC reaffirmed its commitment to safe, comfortable, reliable and sustainable mobility, with commuters at the centre of its vision, as it continues to expand regional connectivity and improve access to opportunities across the National Capital Region.