The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) on Sunday began the trial run of the much-awaited Meerut Metro, which will prove to be an important milestone towards the introduction of metro services in the city.This will be the first time in India that a local metro system in Meerut will operate on the same RRTS corridor where the semi-high-speed NaMo Bharat train runs.RRTS currently operates from New Ashok Nagar in Delhi to Meerut South, and the entire line is expected to be operational by June 2025.
Today, the Meerut Metro trials included running of different trains at different speeds on the sections just before Meerut South and Meerut Central stations. The objective was to evaluate the train’s performance and integration of various technologies.
During the trial runs, the train tracks and traction system were tested. Initially, manual operation was implemented under Train Control Management System (TCMS).
Starting from Meerut South, the train ran slowly till the underground section just before Meerut Central and returned at gradually increased speed. The trials have been conducted at speeds ranging from 40 km/hr to the design speed of 135 km/hr and will continue till the metro is fully operational.
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The tests followed international standards, involving various tests to ensure the safety of passengers. Weight test with sandbags, dynamic safety check and evaluation of ride comfort were integral parts of the test.
To assess these factors, trains will run across different curves and terrains of the corridor. In addition, tests were being conducted to verify the coordination of integrated performance involving subsystems such as signalling, platform screen door (PSD) and overhead supply system.
Meerut Metro’s 12 train sets, each consisting of three coaches, have been manufactured at the Savli manufacturing plant in Gujarat. Of these, 10 have arrived at Duhai depot.
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The upcoming corridor extends for 23 km, consisting of 18 km elevated section and 5 km underground section, and has 13 stations. NCRTC aims to open the entire corridor to the public by this year after completing civil work at the stations.
These 13 stations are: Meerut South (interchange with RRTS), Partapur, Rithani, Shatabdi Nagar (interchange with RRTS), Brahmpuri, Meerut Central, Bhaisali, Begumpul (interchange with RRTS), MES Colony, Daurali, Meerut North, Modipuram (interchange with RRTS) and Modipuram Depot.
The design of Meerut Metro emphasizes maximum comfort, safety and security for passengers. With ergonomically designed seating, luggage racks, grab handles, USB charging ports and air-conditioning – the same features found in NaMo Bharat trains.