Meerut metro launches with world first ETCS hybrid level 3 signalling

Credit: Alstom

Alstom has marked the commencement of commercial operations on the balance stretch of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Namo Bharat corridor, alongside the launch of the Meerut Metro, India’s first Regional Rapid Transit System and urban MRTS operating with ETCS Hybrid Level 3 over LTE 4G signalling.

The milestone, delivered by the National Capital Region Transport Corporation, completes key sections between New Ashok Nagar and Sarai Kale Khan, and Meerut South to Modipuram. The 21km Meerut Metro line connects 12 stations and integrates with the Delhi-Meerut Namo Bharat RRTS at four interchange points, strengthening inter-city and intra-city mobility across the National Capital Region.

Meerut Metro becomes the first system globally to deploy ETCS Hybrid Level 3 over LTE 4G for urban operations. The advanced signalling architecture enhances operational flexibility, safety and capacity while enabling more efficient train control. The trains have a design speed of 135km/h and a maximum operational speed of 120km/h, making them India’s fastest urban metro services.

Signalling innovation and Indian manufacturing

Olivier Loison, Managing Director, Alstom India, said: “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.”

The trainsets were designed at Alstom’s engineering centre in Hyderabad and manufactured at Savli, Gujarat, with propulsion and electrical systems produced at Maneja. The fleet is fully aligned with the government’s Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat ambitions.

The MRTS trains are based on Alstom’s Adessia commuter platform and incorporate passenger-focused amenities including overhead luggage racks, onboard information screens and USB charging points. Accessibility provisions include wheelchair spaces and dedicated stretcher areas for medical emergencies. Emergency communication systems are integrated in compliance with international safety standards.

Under a 2020 contract award, Alstom’s scope covers the design, manufacture and delivery of 180 RRTS cars and 30 MRTS cars, alongside the supply and installation of signalling, train control, telecommunications, platform screen doors and LTE radio systems. The agreement also includes 15 years of maintenance services.

The RRTS programme is designed to relieve congestion in Delhi by enabling faster travel between the capital and satellite towns. It complements the expanding Delhi Metro network and represents a significant evolution in India’s commuter and regional rail capability.