Meerut Metro ETCS Hybrid Level 3 joins Namo Bharat RRTS

Alstom says Meerut Metro ETCS Hybrid Level 3 has entered passenger service alongside commercial operations on the remaining sections of the Namo Bharat RRTS corridor connecting Delhi, Ghaziabad and Meerut, as stated in an Alstom press release.

The launch covers the RRTS balance stretch and revenue service for the Meerut Metro, supported by India-made trainsets and ETCS Hybrid Level 3 over LTE 4G signalling.

The company frames the inauguration as a step forward for urban mobility in the National Capital Region and for intra-city commuting in Meerut. Also, in the same release, Meerut Metro is described as the first in the world to operate on ETCS Hybrid Level 3 over LTE 4G signalling, with the technology positioned around advanced safety and efficiency.

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“The opening of the complete corridor for RRTS and commencement of revenue service for Meerut metro will unlock inter and intra city growth opportunities through this advanced urban rail network. It will be our endeavour to support them in this feat in every possible way.”

Olivier Loison  Managing Director, Alstom India

Namo Bharat RRTS corridor: balance stretch now open

For the Delhi–Ghaziabad–Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), the inauguration of the balance section includes two stretches: New Ashok Nagar to Sarai Kale Khan (5.5 km) and Meerut South to Modipuram (21 km). It also includes the Meerut Metro section (21 km).

The milestone is being led by the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC). In addition, Alstom notes that Meerut Metro is India’s first metro system to be powered by the European Train Control System, using ETCS Hybrid Level 3 signalling over LTE 4G, a setup also discussed by Railway Gazette International.

Meerut Metro ETCS Hybrid Level 3 and train performance details

Alstom states the trainsets were designed at its Hyderabad engineering centre and manufactured at Savli in Gujarat, aligned with the government’s ‘Make-in-India’ and Aatmanirbhar Bharat ambition. Meanwhile, the company adds that propulsion systems and electrical equipment were produced at Alstom’s Maneja facility in Gujarat.

The company says the Meerut Metro trains will be India’s fastest urban metro, with a design speed of 135 kmph and a maximum operational speed of 120 kmph.

Adessia commuter platform features and the Meerut Metro line

The MRTS trainsets are part of Alstom’s Adessia commuter platform and are positioned as a sustainable public-transport option intended to reduce traffic congestion, air pollution and fuel consumption. At the same time, the statement points to ergonomics, safety and comfort, low life-cycle costs and high recyclability. It also says the service will save travel costs and time by linking suburban locations with the economic centre of the region.

Amenities listed include overhead luggage racks, information screens within the coaches, and USB sockets near the seats. Still, the trains also include wheelchair spaces and stretcher space for emergency medical transfers, as well as integrated emergency communication systems. They are described as designed and manufactured in alignment with International Safety Standards.

The Meerut Metro Line covers a 21-km stretch connecting Meerut South to Modipuram via 12 stations. Separately, four stations on the line are set to integrate with the Delhi–Meerut Namo Bharat RRTS, supporting both inter-city and intra-city travel—an overview also covered by Railway Supply.

Alstom scope for the Delhi–Ghaziabad–Meerut RRTS programme

Alstom says it was awarded the contract in 2020. The scope includes the design, manufacture and delivery of 180 RRTS train cars (30 trainsets) and 30 MRTS train cars (10 trainsets) based on the Adessia commuter platform. For example, it also covers the design, supply and installation of the signalling, train control and telecommunication system, platform screen doors and LTE radio communication, plus comprehensive maintenance services for 15 years.

The stated purpose of the RRTS is to relieve traffic congestion in the national capital by enabling faster commuting between nearby satellite towns. Alstom adds that, since the first section of Delhi Metro opened in 2002, metro services have expanded rapidly and the RRTS network is intended to complement the metro. The company notes it designed the train and unveiled it in September 2020, describing it as a game changer in commuter and inter-regional rail transport that is set to change the way India travels.

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