Namo Bharat Declared As Fastest Train In India
The newly launched Namo Bharat train has touched a top speed of 160 kmph on the Delhi–Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System and become the fastest in India. The 55-km operational stretch currently makes it the only train in the country running at such high speed.
Earlier, Gatiman Express and Vande Bharat trains operated at 160 kmph, but their maximum speed was restricted to one route. In June 2024, the Railway Ministry reduced their top limit to 130 kmph nationwide. This makes Namo Bharat the only service retaining the higher speed advantage.
Route And Operations Of Namo Bharat
Currently, 30 trainsets of Namo Bharat train, each with 6 cars, run every 15 minutes between New Ashok Nagar in Delhi and Meerut South in Uttar Pradesh. The corridor will eventually stretch 82.15 km with 16 stations from Sarai Kale Khan (Delhi) to Modipuram (UP).
Officials from NCRTC, the joint venture implementing India’s first Regional Rapid Transit System, said the aerodynamic trainsets are designed in Hyderabad and manufactured in Gujarat’s Savli. They are equipped with Automatic Train Protection, Control, and Operation systems.
Commuter Experience And Benefits
Unlike conventional railways, the Namo Bharat train does not run on a fixed timetable or require reservations. It also differs from metro services, as it is designed for relatively longer distances with fewer stops at higher speeds.
Since its first 17-km priority section began in October 2023, the system has expanded to 55 km and served over 1.5 crore riders. Once the full corridor is operational, travel between Delhi and Meerut will take under one hour with all stops included.
The NCRTC is also trialing Meerut Metro on the same infrastructure, offering seamless transfers for passengers across 23 km with 13 stations.
FAQs
Q: What is the top speed of the Namo Bharat train fastest in India?
A: The train touches 160 kmph, making it India’s fastest operational train.
Q: How is the Namo Bharat train different from metro services?
A: It connects longer distances with fewer stops and much higher speed than metro trains.
Q: When will the full Namo Bharat corridor be completed?
A: The 82.15 km corridor from Delhi to Modipuram is expected to be commissioned soon.
Q: Why are Vande Bharat and Gatiman trains slower than Namo Bharat now?
A: Their maximum speed was capped at 130 kmph by the Railway Ministry in June 2024.
