PMO team visits Namo Bharat corridor, reviews operations
Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, Dr PK Mishra, on Friday visited the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Namo Bharat corridor and reviewed the functioning of India’s first regional rapid transit system, with a focus on technology, connectivity, and commuter experience.
Dr Mishra was accompanied by Tarun Kapoor, advisor to the Prime Minister, and other senior officials from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). Secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs Srinivas Katikithala and other senior ministry officials were also present during the visit.
The delegation was received at Sarai Kale Khan Namo Bharat station by NCRTC Managing Director Shalabh Goel, along with senior officials. The station serves as the starting point of the corridor and is being developed as a major multi-modal transport hub.
Officials briefed the delegation on the 82-kilometre corridor connecting Delhi, Ghaziabad, and Meerut.
The project has been positioned as a key initiative to improve regional mobility and reduce traffic congestion and vehicular emissions.
According to the presentation, the corridor is designed to support sustainable urban transport while enabling faster and more efficient travel across the region. It also aims to promote balanced urban growth by improving connectivity between cities.
Dr Mishra reviewed the integrated design of Sarai Kale Khan station, which connects with multiple transport systems, including the Delhi Metro, railway station, interstate bus terminal, and city bus services. Officials said the station will act as a central hub where different modes of transport converge to provide seamless travel.
The delegation was informed that all three priority corridors under Phase 1 of the Namo Bharat project will meet at Sarai Kale Khan and will be interoperable. This integration is expected to improve commuter convenience and reduce reliance on private vehicles.
Dr Mishra appreciated the concept of linking multiple transport networks into a unified system. He noted that such integration can improve efficiency and encourage people to shift to public transport. During the visit, the delegation undertook a round trip on the Namo Bharat train from Sarai Kale Khan to Duhai Depot station.
Officials demonstrated various features of the train designed to enhance passenger comfort and accessibility. Special attention was drawn to facilities aimed at inclusivity, including arrangements for carrying stretchers for medical emergencies.
