New Delhi, India (Metro Rail Today): Deutsche Bahn (DB), Germany’s leading rail transport company and the operator of India’s first Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), also known as Namo Bharat, is planning to expand its footprint in India with two additional major projects in the next five years. The company, which currently oversees the operation and maintenance of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Namo Bharat corridor, is targeting further expansion in both RRTS and metro rail systems in the National Capital Region (NCR) and beyond.
In an interview with media, Niko Warbanoff, Chief Executive of DB E.C.O. Group, expressed his company’s commitment to expanding its business in India, emphasizing the importance of multimodal connectivity for the country’s growing urban transport needs. He said, “We are not here for just one project. Our goal is to contribute to India’s development with our expertise, and expanding corridors around NCR is a key priority for us.”
Warbanoff highlighted that DB E.C.O. Group is keen to explore additional RRTS projects, alongside potential opportunities in the metro rail sector. “Once we have the opportunity to operate, we are looking to enter the metro business as well,” he added. He also noted that several other Indian jurisdictions are considering RRTS-style projects, aligning with the national vision for enhanced, seamless urban transport solutions.
RRTS and Metro Integration: A Vision for Future Connectivity
Warbanoff pointed out that metro services, bus systems, and RRTS networks should work together to create a well-integrated transport system for commuters. “Infrastructure like the Namo Bharat RRTS system and metro systems are crucial for India’s development,” he stated. “They provide essential connectivity to education, workplaces, and contribute significantly to the economy.”
He further emphasized that the expansion of RRTS and metro networks is a key priority for both the federal and state governments, and this momentum will only continue. “It’s exciting to see the growth in the metro business, and I am confident this trend will persist, as it’s fundamental for societal development.”
Namo Bharat: A Game-Changer for Commuter Travel
Deutsche Bahn’s current Namo Bharat project, covering a 55 km stretch, is set to expand to 82 km by the end of 2025. Warbanoff underscored the significant impact the project is already having on commuter travel, stating, “It’s reducing travel times from two to three hours to just 40 minutes, which is a massive advantage for passengers. This transformation speaks for itself.”
The Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut stretch of Namo Bharat, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in October 2023, is a critical part of the regional transport network. In 2022, DB International Operations, part of the DB E.C.O. Group, was awarded the contract to manage the operation and maintenance of the Namo Bharat project by the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC). The concession for running the system spans 12 years, with a contract value of ₹1,493.08 crore.
As part of the project, Deutsche Bahn plans to operate 40 RRTS trains on the network, aiming to further revolutionize long-distance commuter travel in the region.
Looking Ahead
Deutsche Bahn’s plans for further RRTS and metro projects in India reflect its strong commitment to shaping the future of urban mobility in the country. By leveraging its global expertise, DB is positioned to play a pivotal role in advancing India’s transport infrastructure and supporting the nation’s economic and social development.