I am entering the platform of the Sarai Kale Khan RRTS station in Delhi for the first time. At a time when Kerala is also studying and discussing the RRTS (Regional Rapid Transit System) model, this journey was truly fascinating. I was part of the first media contingent to travel from the Sarai Kale Khan station—which has not yet been opened to the public—ahead of its official inauguration.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will dedicate this to the nation on February 22, 2026. Previously, the Delhi-Meerut RRTS service operated in four phases from Meerut South to New Ashok Nagar in East Delhi. However, the service becomes truly beneficial for Delhiites from tomorrow. Until now, it covered 55 km across 11 stations, ending at the Delhi-UP border at New Ashok Nagar.
Now, it reaches the heart of Delhi: Nizamuddin. Most people travelling from Kerala by train are familiar with Nizamuddin station; that very location is also known as Sarai Kale Khan.
Sarai Kale Khan: A Transit Hub
The journey begins at the Sarai Kale Khan station. This isn't just a station; it’s a massive transport hub where the Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station, the Inter-State Bus Terminus (ISBT), and the Metro station all converge. The high-speed train now joins this ecosystem, with direct connectivity linking all these modes of transport. Since it is a high-traffic area, spacious underground parking has been arranged beneath the station.
Yamuna and Heritage Bridges: A Visual Treat
At 12 pm, the Namo Bharat RRTS sped off from Sarai Kale Khan with the media team. Within a minute of leaving the station, the train enters the bridge over the Yamuna River. Travelling from Meerut, the train first hits New Ashok Nagar (the previous terminus) before diving underground. After leaving Delhi and entering Ghaziabad in UP, Namo Bharat passes near a historic Indian Railways bridge. The view of this bridge, framed by towering residential complexes, is striking. As the journey continues, the landscape shifts to lush green farmland, sugarcane fields, and factories on both sides.
Racing at 159 km/h
For many, watching the digital speed display inside the coach is a highlight. Since this media run was non-stop, we covered the distance in just 39 minutes. By road, the 74 km journey from Nizamuddin to Begumpul is unpredictable due to traffic blocks. On the RRTS screen, the speed climbed by the second: 90, 100, 130, 150... finally, it hit the "magic number" of 159 km/h and hovered there. I had my camera ready, hoping to capture it touching 160 km/h, but it didn't happen.
Although the train is capable of reaching 180 km/h, it maintained its pace without crossing 159. Despite the high speed, the ride was perfectly smooth. The only minor sensation was a slight pressure in the ears—similar to a flight taking off or landing—when entering or exiting the underground tunnels, which normalised within seconds.
Two Classes of Travel
The train features both Premium and Standard coaches. Charging points for mobiles and laptops are available in both. The main differences lie in legroom and seat quality. The Premium coach also features a vending machine for snacks and beverages. Like an aircraft, every coach is equipped with luggage racks. There are six coaches in total, including general coaches and a dedicated coach for women, similar to the Delhi Metro.
Multi-Modal Connectivity
Namo Bharat is integrated with the Delhi Metro at Sarai Kale Khan, New Ashok Nagar, and Anand Vihar. Once it enters Uttar Pradesh, it also connects with the newly established Meerut Metro. While passengers use foot overbridges to switch between RRTS and Metro in Delhi, the arrangement in Meerut is different—the Metro and Namo Bharat share different sides of the same platform.
