The year 2024 marked an era of milestones for the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) and the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC). Both organisations showcased significant advancements in urban transportation, cementing their roles as trailblazers in the sector. From record ridership numbers to initiatives empowering women through driving training, the DMRC and NCRTC left an indelible impact.
Key construction milestones
2024 was a milestone year for the DMRC, with several construction achievements under Phase IV. Notable among them was the completion of an 865-metre underground tunnel between Chhatarpur and Chhatarpur Mandir Station on the Tughlakabad-Aerocity corridor. On September 18, the DMRC celebrated the breakthrough of its first twin tunnel under Phase-IV construction, a remarkable engineering feat.
The longest underground tunnel, spanning 2.65 km between the Tughlakabad Airforce Launching Shaft and Maa Anandmayee Marg, was completed on December 4, further advancing Delhi’s urban transport network.
Enhancing commuter experience
DMRC introduced several initiatives aimed at improving commuter convenience. Launching the multiple-journey QR ticket system and integrating bike taxi services via the DMRC Momentum app were significant steps towards seamless travel. Additionally, introducing international flight check-in facilities at Airport Express Line stations enhanced the metro’s user-friendly appeal.
November 18 saw DMRC achieve its highest-ever single-day ridership of 78.67 lakh journeys, a testament to its growing popularity and efficiency.
Operational milestones
NCRTC’s flagship project, the Delhi-Meerut Namo Bharat Corridor, saw significant progress. The Prime Minister inaugurated the 17 km priority section in October 2023, followed by an additional 17 km section opening to Modi Nagar North on March 6, 2024. The corridor was extended eight km to Meerut South, marking a total operational length of 42 km.
With over five million commuters and facilities like parking for 8,000 vehicles, the corridor demonstrated the NCRTC’s commitment to revolutionising intercity travel.
Technological innovations
The upgraded ‘Namo Bharat Connect’ app introduced live train tracking, real-time parking availability, and a lost-and-found service, creating a seamless passenger experience. Agreements for integrated QR-ticketing with DMRC further streamlined ticketing systems.
NCRTC’s driving training programme in Ghaziabad was a standout initiative in 2024. Aimed at empowering women aged 18 to 35, the programme provided valuable driving skills to over 500 participants, significantly enhancing their livelihoods.
The year also brought global recognition for the NCRTC. German Ambassador Philipp Ackermann’s ride on a Namo Bharat train and a delegation visit from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) underscored the corridor’s significance in India’s urban development narrative.
From achieving record ridership to empowering women and introducing cutting-edge technologies, 2024 was a landmark year for the DMRC and NCRTC. Their efforts advanced infrastructure and prioritised passenger convenience and inclusivity, paving the way for a brighter future in urban transportation.
