The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a fresh $299 million loan for the Delhi–Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), marking the final tranche of its multi-year financing support for India’s flagship urban transport project.
With the latest infusion of funds, the ADB has cumulatively dispensed $1.05 billion into the project since 2020, signaling the bank’s commitment to the transformation of mobility in the National Capital Region (NCR).
Delhi–Meerut RRTS: Cutting travel time to under an hour
Spanning 82 kilometers, the Delhi–Meerut RRTS is designed to slash travel time between the two cities from over three hours to just one. Currently, 55 km of the corridor with 11 stations–from New Ashok Nagar in Delhi to Meerut South–is already operational.
Add Zee Business as a Preferred Source
“The project marks a transformative step in India’s urban transport landscape,” said ADB Country Director for India Mio Oka. “It not only enhances mobility but also promotes inclusive growth, environmental sustainability, and is expected to serve as a model for future regional rapid transit systems across India and the Asia-Pacific region.”
Also Read: NCRTC unveils Meerut Metro at RRTS Depot, Duhai in UP’s Ghaziabad
The final station on the corridor, located at Sarai Kale Khan, is set to begin operations soon, which will reduce travel time between Sarai Kale Khan and Meerut to under an hour, even with halts at all stations.
Speed, sustainability, and seamless connectivity
With trains capable of hitting 180 kmph and running every 5–10 minutes, the RRTS promises “safe, reliable, and high-capacity commuter” services. The project is also expected to cut annual carbon emissions by more than 258,000 tons while spurring polycentric urban growth across the NCR.
Thirty Namo Bharat trainsets, each consisting of six coaches, are currently in service. These operate every 15 minutes along the partially operational route, briefly reaching speeds of up to 160 kmph.
Most RRTS stations are integrated with the Delhi Metro network, making travel smoother. Sarai Kale Khan will link with the Metro’s Pink Line, while existing stops already connect with the Blue, Red and other key lines.
Also Read: NCRTC begins trial runs of Namo Bharat trains between Sahibabad and New Ashok Nagar RRTS stations
Global support and execution
ADB’s financing is complemented by co-funding from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and the Japan Fund for Prosperous and Resilient Asia and the Pacific.
“ADB financing for the project is complemented by a joint cofinancing from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and the Japan Fund for Prosperous and Resilient Asia and the Pacific,” the release said.
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs is executing the project, while NCRTC is handling implementation. The RRTS is expected to serve as a template for future high-speed regional networks across India, cementing its role as a game-changer in sustainable public transport.
