India’s Revolutionary Regional Rail: RAPIDX Redefines Commuting and Safety Standards
In a groundbreaking transportation development, India is poised to introduce its inaugural Regional Rail system, RAPIDX, set to redefine the commuter experience and usher in a new era of safety and convenience. This transformative project encompasses a sprawling 82-kilometer corridor connecting Delhi, Ghaziabad, and Meerut, promising to revamp regional commuting for millions.
RAPIDX Inaugurates Priority Section from Sahibabad to Duhai Depot
A significant milestone within the RAPIDX project is the inauguration of the 17-kilometer Priority Section, linking Sahibabad to Duhai Depot. Passenger operations are scheduled to commence on October 21, 2023, marking a historic moment for regional transit. This section features five pivotal stations: Sahibabad, Ghaziabad, Guldhar, Duhai, and Duhai Depot.
RAPIDX Trains Redefining Comfort and Safety
RAPIDX trains are designed to operate at a remarkable 160 kilometers per hour, providing commuters with fully air-conditioned coaches and a plethora of amenities for a secure and comfortable journey. These features include ergonomically designed 2×2 transverse seating, spacious standing areas, luggage racks, advanced CCTV camera surveillance, laptop and mobile charging facilities, dynamic route maps, auto-controlled ambient lighting, a sophisticated Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning System (HVAC), and more.
Convenient Operation Hours and Frequency
RAPIDX trains will operate between 6:00 am and 11:00 pm, with the first and last trains departing at 6:00 am and 11:00 pm, respectively. Commencing with a train available every 15 minutes, the system can adjust frequency to meet demand.
Inclusive Coach Layout and Premium Comfort
Each RAPIDX train boasts six coaches with a capacity for approximately 17:00 commuters, including both seating and standing space. Standard coaches provide 72 seats, while Premium coaches offer 62 seats. A dedicated coach for women, located adjacent to the Premium coach, as well as reserved seating for women, specially-abled individuals, and senior citizens in each coach, ensure inclusivity.
Premium Coach with Added Comfort
The Premium coach in each RAPIDX train offers enhanced comfort, featuring reclining seats, coat hooks, magazine holders, and footrests. Positioned as the first coach from Meerut to Delhi and the last coach from Delhi to Meerut, it also includes a Premium Lounge with vending machines for snacks and drinks.
Train Attendant for Passenger Assistance
Each RAPIDX train will be equipped with a dedicated Train Attendant stationed in the Premium coach. These attendants will assist commuters, familiarize them with onboard amenities, and ensure their safety and security throughout the journey.
Versatile Ticketing Options
RAPIDX offers various ticketing options for convenience, including paper QR code-based journey tickets, Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs), Unified Payments Interface (UPI) enabled TVMs, National Common Mobility Cards (NCMC), and digital QR code-based tickets through the ‘RAPIDX Connect’ mobile application. A Customer Care Center is available to assist with ticketing inquiries.
Dedicated Facilities for Special Needs
RAPIDX trains feature designated spaces for wheelchairs and stretchers in the last coach. Stations are equipped with electronic public displays to provide real-time train information, as well as seating for commuter comfort.
Comprehensive Amenities for Commuters
Paid areas of station concourses provide access to drinking water, washrooms, and diaper-changing stations. An Information Desk, ‘RAPIDX Connect’ mobile app, and social media platforms offer information on train services.
Safety Measures and Assistance
First Aid facilities and Lost & Found Centers are available at all RAPIDX stations. An Emergency Help Call Point, Passenger Emergency Communication Units, and the ‘RAPIDX Connect’ app facilitate communication in emergencies.
Innovative Platform Screen Doors and Security
Platform Screen Doors (PSD) integrated with the train doors and AI-enabled Door Frame Metal Detectors enhance security. Luggage scanners employ dual-view X-ray technology to prevent suspicious items from entering the station. Security is further bolstered by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and Uttar Pradesh Special Security Force (UPSSF).
Enhanced Accessibility and Traffic Management
RAPIDX stations feature multiple entry/exit points, foot overbridges, dedicated pick-up/drop-off areas, parking facilities, and pedestrian-friendly paths. Para Transit-based Feeder services enhance connectivity to urban and rural areas, addressing the last-mile challenge.
As India embarks on this revolutionary journey with RAPIDX, it aims to set new benchmarks in regional transit, elevating safety, convenience, and inclusivity for commuters across the nation. Stay tuned for the latest updates on this transformative project.
