IRCON commissions 169 TKM of Overhead Equipment on Delhi-Meerut RRTS Corridor

New Delhi, India (Metro Rail Today): IRCON International Ltd., a leading infrastructure PSU under the Ministry of Railways, has achieved a critical infrastructure milestone by successfully completing and commissioning the entire Overhead Equipment (OHE) system across 169 track kilometres (82 route kilometres) of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor. This achievement significantly advances the operational readiness of India’s first semi-high-speed Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) and reinforces IRCON’s leadership in large-scale railway electrification.

The project, implemented under the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC), is a cornerstone of India's efforts to boost regional connectivity, promote green mobility, and introduce high-speed, energy-efficient rail solutions to the National Capital Region.

IRCON was entrusted with the design, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of the OHE for the entire stretch. The now-completed OHE network uses 25 kV AC traction technology and enables the seamless operation of next-generation trains, including the Namo Bharat semi-high-speed trainsets.

Key highlights of the electrification achievement:

• Completion of 169 km of electrified track for up and down lines.

• State-of-the-art, energy-efficient electrification aligned with green mobility goals.

• Overcoming complex challenges, including dense urban zones and multi-agency coordination.

Spanning 82 route kilometres, the Delhi–Ghaziabad–Meerut RRTS corridor is designed for a top speed of 180 km/h, with an average operational speed of 100 km/h. Once fully operational, it will reduce travel time between Delhi and Meerut to under 60 minutes, offering a reliable, high-speed alternative to road travel and decongesting key NCR highways.

The corridor is being commissioned in phases, with sections like Sahibabad to Duhai already functional. The successful electrification across the entire route now enables full-speed trials and rapid commercial deployment of the remaining segments.

With the OHE now in place, the corridor is set to support fully electric operations, reducing dependency on fossil fuels and helping to cut urban pollution. The initiative aligns with India’s net-zero emissions goals and enhances urban resilience through sustainable transport infrastructure.

Commenting on the development, Mrs. Mamta Shah, Managing Director & CEO of Urban Infra Group, said:

“The commissioning of the Overhead Equipment across the entire Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor is a transformational moment in India’s rail infrastructure journey. IRCON’s accomplishment not only demonstrates their engineering excellence but also sets the stage for a cleaner, faster, and smarter transportation era. This milestone brings us closer to realizing NCRTC’s vision of seamless regional mobility and sets a global benchmark for sustainable urban transit.”

The completion of the OHE system positions the RRTS corridor for near-future full-scale operations. Once launched, the corridor will:

• Significantly cut intercity travel times.

• Promote green transport and reduce vehicular emissions.

• Stimulate economic activity and urban development across Delhi NCR.

IRCON's milestone marks a new chapter in India's transport modernization—accelerating the shift toward high-speed, electric, and environmentally responsible rail systems.