The National Capital Region (NCR) could soon see a significant expansion of its rapid rail network with the proposal of four new Namo Bharat corridors. These routes, aimed at enhancing connectivity across the region, are currently under review by the central government.
Proposed Corridors Detailed
Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, Tokhan Sahu, informed the Rajya Sabha that the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) has submitted Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for these new lines. The four corridors are:
- Delhi-Karnal: This route aims to extend high-speed rapid rail connectivity into Haryana's northern belt, significantly reducing travel times.
- Delhi-Bawal: Designed to improve connectivity in southern Haryana, addressing a long-standing need for better high-speed commuter access.
- Bawal-Behror: Further expanding the network in southern Haryana, linking key growing towns.
- Ghaziabad-Noida International Airport: Crucial for improving access to the upcoming Jewar Airport, which is projected to become a major aviation hub for North India.
These proposals are expected to bridge existing gaps in high-speed public transport, offering faster and more efficient travel options for commuters.
Next Steps and Broader Vision
Minister Sahu stated that the submitted DPRs are undergoing a thorough technical and financial appraisal. Financial assistance for these projects will be considered by the central government based on the feasibility of the proposals and the availability of resources.
These proposed corridors align with the broader transport blueprint outlined in the NCR Planning Board's Functional Plan on Transport for NCR-2032. This plan identifies eight RRTS corridors for the region, with some, like the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut line, already operational as India's first Namo Bharat rapid rail line.
While the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut corridor, sanctioned in March 2019, now serves thousands daily, the new proposals remain in the planning phase. No official approval or funding has been announced yet, underscoring that Namo Bharat projects involve substantial investment and require extensive evaluation before a final commitment from the Centre.