Authorities are vigorously exploring plans to extend the Namo Bharat Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridor from Delhi to Rishikesh. The project, which is gathering pace, with authorities exploring feasibility and alignment to cut travel time between the two cities to around 3 hours.

The proposed expansion is part of a broader push to channelise high-speed regional connectivity across north India.

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Expansion Plans Under Review

“The extension of the Delhi–Meerut Namo Bharat corridor towards Haridwar and Rishikesh is under active consideration.”

-Officials involved in the developmental plans

The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) is assessing technical and financial aspects, including route alignment, ridership potential and integration with existing rail and road networks.

The proposed corridor will pass through the popular urban and religious hubs, improving access to Uttarakhand’s major pilgrimage destinations. Authorities will also review the multimodal connectivity to ensure seamless last-mile links.

While the project is still in its initial planning stage, early assessments reveal strong demand from tourists and daily commuters. The extension aligns with the government’s focus on a high-speed, sustainable transport ecosystem.

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Shorter Travel Span and Boosted Connectivity

Once approved, the extended corridor would reduce travel time between Delhi and Rishikesh to nearly three hours. Given the current road and traffic conditions, it presently takes 6 to 7 hours to reach Rishikesh from Delhi.

The Namo Bharat trains are designed specifically for high-speed regional transit.

The commute is exceptionally faster and a reliable alternative to road transport. The project is expected to ease congestion on national highways leading to Uttarakhand, especially during peak seasons.

Detailed project reports (DPRs) and inter-state coordination will be the next steps before official and formal approvals. Funding models, including central and state participation, are also under discussion.

The proposed extension comes amid a broader expansion strategy for the Namo Bharat network, which aims to connect major cities across the National Capital Region (NCR) and beyond with semi-high-speed rail corridors.