New Delhi: The central government is exploring the possibility of linking the NCR with Haridwar and Rishikesh through the Namo Bharat Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS). If this initiative goes ahead, the travel time from Delhi-Ghaziabad to Rishikesh could be reduced to just 2.25 to 3 hours. A report from The Tribune mentioned that a high-level meeting took place between Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar. The primary focus of this meeting was to discuss the expansion of the rapid rail network.
At present, the Namo Bharat Corridor connects Delhi to Meerut. The Namo Bharat (RRTS) train travels the 82 km distance from Sarai Kale Khan in Delhi to Meerut (Modipuram) in about 55-60 minutes. It runs at a speed of 160 km/h and operates from 6 am to 10 pm. According to the proposed plan, the Namo Bharat train will continue from Modipuram in Meerut to Rishikesh, running alongside National Highway 58 (NH-58). This corridor will link several key industrial and agricultural hubs in western Uttar Pradesh, directly entering the Devbhoomi region of Uttarakhand.
Major stations and routes
The initial phase of this project includes stations such as Daurala, Sakauti, Khatauli, and Purkaji, which are situated near the Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand border. The plan aims to extend this Rapid Rail line through Roorkee, reaching Jwalapur in Haridwar, and ultimately Rishikesh. This development will not only benefit residents of Delhi-NCR but will also enhance access to the capital from smaller towns in both Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
There will be a boom in tourism and real estate
The expansion of the Rapid Rail network is expected to go beyond just travel; it will also provide a significant boost to the economies of Uttarakhand and Western Uttar Pradesh. Cities like Haridwar and Rishikesh frequently face severe traffic congestion on the highways during peak tourist seasons and religious events such as the Kumbh Mela. The Namo Bharat Train will offer travelers a dependable and timely alternative. This is anticipated to greatly enhance the overall travel experience.
