Pollution Fight: Namo Bharat Adds 20 Extra Trips to Clear NCR Skies
NCRTC introduces 20 extra Namo Bharat trips between Delhi and Meerut to reduce private vehicle use as air quality hits 'very poor' levels.
As the National Capital Region (NCR) grapples with a suffocating blanket of smog, the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) has stepped up its efforts to get private cars off the road. To combat the worsening air quality, the NCRTC is introducing Namo Bharat additional trips starting Wednesday, November 4, across the Delhi-Meerut corridor.
More Trains to Fight 'Very Poor' Air Quality
The decision comes at a critical time when the Air Quality Index (AQI) has plummeted to alarming levels. Delhi recently recorded an AQI of 397, while other key areas along the corridor, including Ghaziabad and Meerut, have fallen into the 'very poor' and 'severe' categories.
In response to this environmental crisis, the government has already enforced the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) II in Delhi. Furthermore, since November 1, strict restrictions have been placed on certain categories of vehicles entering the capital to curb emissions.
Route and Connectivity Details
The 20 additional services will operate across the entire stretch of the corridor, connecting Sarai Kale Khan in Delhi to Modipuram in Meerut. By increasing the frequency of trains, the NCRTC aims to provide a reliable, green alternative for commuters who would otherwise rely on private transport.
To make the transition easier for passengers, Namo Bharat offers seamless integration with several other transport modes at major hubs, including:
- Delhi Metro
- Indian Railways
- Inter-state bus terminals
- City bus services
These integrations are particularly prominent at key transit points such as Anand Vihar, New Ashok Nagar, Ghaziabad, and Sarai Kale Khan.
Smart Facilities for the Modern Commuter
Beyond just adding more trains, the NCRTC is focusing on the overall passenger experience to make public transport more attractive than driving. Parking facilities are available at Namo Bharat stations to assist those traveling from distant areas.
Adding a layer of technological convenience, the Namo Bharat Connect App now features live parking tracking. This allows commuters to check for available parking spaces in real-time, enabling them to plan their entire journey before they even book their tickets.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy to promote sustainable mobility and reduce the region's dependence on private vehicles, ensuring that train operations evolve alongside the needs of the commuters.