The proposed Namo Bharat train project between Delhi and Alwar is expected to gain momentum soon. The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) has finalized the locations for most of the stations along this corridor.
Namo Bharat Train: With the aim of reducing traffic and population pressure between Delhi-NCR and Rajasthan, the Central Government is working on a major plan. Under this plan, the Namo Bharat Train will run from Delhi to Alwar. This Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) project will be completed in three phases, covering cities like Gurugram, Dharuhera, Behror, and Alwar.
What is the Namo Bharat Train Project?
The Namo Bharat Train, touted as India's first high-speed regional rail network, will operate at a maximum speed of 160 km/h and an average speed of 100 km/h. A total of 19 stations will be built between Delhi and Alwar, with train services available every 10 minutes. This system will not only expedite travel but also alleviate the increasing traffic and population pressure in Delhi and its surrounding areas.
The first phase of the project will be developed from Delhi to Shahjahanpur-Neemrana-Behror (SNB) via Gurugram. This phase will be approximately 106 kilometers long. It will be developed parallel to the Delhi-Jaipur Highway (NH-48) to facilitate movement and reduce the burden on the highway.
Dispute over Station Location in Udyog Vihar
In this ambitious project, a station is proposed in the Udyog Vihar area of Gurugram. The NCRTC has proposed building this station near Shankar Chowk. However, the HSIIDC is opposing it. The HSIIDC argues that there is already excessive traffic pressure at Shankar Chowk.
Additionally, a Delhi Metro station is also proposed here, which is expected to further increase traffic. In light of this, an alternative location is being sought for the station.
Committee Formed to Determine Location
A high-level committee, chaired by the Additional Chief Secretary of Haryana's Town and Country Planning Department, has been formed to finalize the station's location. This committee is expected to make a decision within the next 10 days, so that work can begin on the ground. Dr. Yash Garg, Managing Director of HSIIDC, stated that the committee will study all aspects before making a decision.
Ground preparation for the Delhi-Alwar RRTS project began a year ago. Soil testing, relocation of electricity towers, and utility surveys (such as water pipelines, sewer lines, telephone cables, etc.) have already been completed. As soon as a suitable location for the station is finalized, the Central Government will give the green light to construction work.
What Benefits Will Gurugram Receive?
Thousands of people working in corporate and industrial hubs like Gurugram will now be able to comfortably commute from Delhi, Dharuhera, or Alwar. This will also boost real estate and reduce congestion in cities. Interchange stations will also be built under the plan for connectivity between the Delhi Metro and this train near Cyber City and Hero Honda Chowk.
Phase-by-Phase Expansion Plan
- Phase 1: Delhi to Shahjahanpur-Neemrana-Behror (SNB) – 106 km
- Phase 2: Extension from Behror to Sotanal
- Phase 3: Extension from Sotanal to Alwar
An alternative plan is also being considered in the first phase for Delhi to Dharuhera, as maximum passenger traffic is concentrated on this section. The government believes that after the completion of this project, the pressure to live in Delhi and Gurugram will decrease, as people will now be able to easily commute to Delhi-NCR for work by taking affordable housing in cities like Alwar, Dharuhera, and Behror.
