All about Meerut Metro: India’s fastest metro

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated the Meerut Metro, marking the launch of a high-speed urban transit system that introduces a first-of-its-kind model in India. The metro operates on the same tracks and infrastructure as the Namo Bharat regional rapid transit system, allowing both intercity and intra-city trains to function on a unified network.

Fastest metro in India

The Meerut Metro stands out as the country’s quickest metro service, capable of running at an operational speed of up to 120 kmph, with a design speed of 135 kmph. Once fully functional, commuters will be able to travel across the 21-km Meerut South to Modipuram stretch in roughly 30 minutes, including all station halts. This significantly cuts travel time within the city and improves overall connectivity.

Integrated system with shared infrastructure

This metro project introduces an integrated transport model where Meerut Metro trains and Namo Bharat services use common tracks, stations and signalling systems. This approach enables seamless mobility between local metro routes and regional rapid transit corridors. The system is expected to ease pressure on roads while helping lower pollution levels caused by vehicular traffic.

Corridor length, route and stations

The full corridor spans 23 km, including 16 km of elevated sections and 7 km underground. The route features 13 stations in total, with nine elevated stops such as Meerut South, Partapur, Shatabdi Nagar and Modipuram. Three underground stations — Meerut Central, Bhaisali and Begumpul — serve densely populated areas, while Modipuram Depot functions at ground level. Four stations, including Meerut South and Begumpul, are shared with Namo Bharat services, enabling smooth passenger transfers.

Modern trains with advanced technology

Meerut Metro trains consist of three fully air-conditioned coaches designed using lightweight stainless steel. Each train can accommodate over 700 passengers, with seating available for 173 commuters. The interiors include cushioned seats, luggage racks, USB charging ports, CCTV surveillance and digital route maps for passenger convenience.

The trains are equipped with regenerative braking systems to conserve energy, along with Automatic Train Protection and Automatic Train Operation features to enhance safety and efficiency. Emergency alarms, communication systems and fire safety equipment are also installed.

Accessibility and passenger comfort

The metro has been designed to ensure universal accessibility. Reserved seating is provided for women, senior citizens and persons with disabilities. Stations include lifts, platform screen doors and dedicated spaces for wheelchairs and stretchers, ensuring safe and inclusive travel.

Frequency and operating hours

During busy hours, trains will arrive every 5 to 10 minutes, while off-peak frequency will range between 10 and 15 minutes. Services will generally run from early morning until late evening, offering reliable transport throughout the day.

Faster regional connectivity

Once fully integrated with the broader transit network, the system is expected to reduce the Delhi-Meerut travel time to around 55 minutes. This improved connectivity will benefit daily commuters and strengthen links between Meerut and key NCR cities such as Delhi, Ghaziabad, Noida and Gurugram.

Project development timeline

Planning for the metro began with the preparation of a detailed project report by RITES in 2016. Construction gained momentum after the foundation stone was laid in March 2019. The project reached a key milestone with its first trial run in January 2025, before finally opening for public operations.

The launch of Meerut Metro represents a major step forward in India’s urban transport evolution, combining high speed, modern technology and integrated infrastructure to deliver faster, cleaner and more efficient mobility.