The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) has come out with a policy to rent out Rapid Rail Transit System (RRTS) premises and the iconic Namo-Bharat trains for hosting events, including film shootings. This will cost only 2 to 3 lakh per hour. The schedule and booking fee for hiring NCRTC premises, including per scheduled hour of occupancy for commercial purposes, are Rs 2 lakh for all stations of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut corridor, Rs 3 lakh for Namo Bharat trains and station, and Rs 2.5 lakh for depots and other sites.
As per the new policy, spaces, such as RRTS stations and Namo-Bharat trains, are now available for short-term hire for film shootings, documentaries and TV commercials as the architectural and design brilliance of RRTS stations and Namo-Bharat trains makes them exceptional choices for film shooting. “To promote RRTS and Namo-Bharat train as an accessible and attractive shooting venue and retain its brand image as the most preferred RRTS system in the country and to showcase Delhi-NCR as one of the best shooting destinations in terms of modern infrastructure, heritage connect and demographic canvas in the national and international market,” the policy said.
“With the proliferation of OTT platforms and the digital landscape, there has been a surge in the utilization of public transport systems, particularly metro rail systems, as backdrops for filming feature films, documentaries, and web series. NCRTC’s decision to open its doors to such activities provides a lucrative opportunity for filmmakers seeking dynamic and modern shooting locations. RRTS’s infrastructures boast international standards in architecture and design coupled with contemporary aesthetics and world-class facilities making them optimal choices for filmmakers aiming for visually captivating and versatile settings,” the NCRTC said in a statement. It further said the architectural and design brilliance of RRTS stations and Namo-Bharat trains makes them exceptional choices for film shooting. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant hues of the peacock feather, RRTS stations showcase striking blue and beige tones, extending this captivating palette to their exterior facades.
“These stations offer well-lit and airy spaces, suffused with natural light.Further enhancing their visual appeal, beige perforated panels and louvres facilitate smooth airflow, adding both aesthetic charm and practical functionality. Meanwhile, Namo-Bharat trains represent the epitome of modernity, boasting sleek designs and an array of passenger-centric amenities. With their aerodynamic profiles designed to minimize air drag at high speeds, these trains provide wide gangways, tinted panoramic windows, and an impeccably seamless travel experience, making them optimal settings for cinematic storytelling,” it said.
According to policy, NCRTC/ RRTS premises can also be rented for event purposes other than shooting. If Namo Bharat Trains are required during night hours (Non-revenue Hour) then booking of events can also be considered.
Filmmakers now have an inviting opportunity to tap into the futuristic appeal of RRTS Stations and Namo-Bharat Trains, elevating the visual narratives of their cinematic endeavors on par with global standards at competent charges.
The 82 km-long Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS Corridor stands as India’s pioneering RRTS corridor to be implemented in the country. This corridor will encompass 25 stations, inclusive of two depot stations. Additionally, local transit services are slated to be offered on the RRTS network in Meerut, covering 13 stations within a span of 23 km to cater to local transit needs.
On October 20, 2023, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India’s first RRTS and flagged off the Namo Bharat train. With this, the 17-kilometer-long priority section between Sahibabad and Duhai Depot was operationalized for the public. The 25 km stretch between Duhai and Meerut South RRTS station is the next section of the RRTS corridor set to be operationalized for the public after the priority Section. This section encompasses a total of 4 stations: Murad Nagar, Modi Nagar North, Modi Nagar South, and Meerut South. Trial runs on this section are ongoing.
