The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) has won two prestigious awards at the UIC Sustainability Impact Awards 2024 in Berlin – the Best Transit Award for Seamless Connectivity and the Overall Winner Award. Recognized for its sustainability initiatives and cutting-edge transit solutions, NCRTC’s achievements align with global sustainability goals.
Award Ceremony & Significance:
The awards, presented by the International Union of Railways (UIC) in partnership with the Sustainable Development Foundation, were accepted by Shri Shalabh Goel, MD of NCRTC, at InnoTrans 2024. UIC’s 2030 vision “Design a Better Future” and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) form the core themes of the awards.
Competition Overview & Global Participation:
The awards event featured 17 finalist projects from 15 countries, including major rail operators like Korea Railroad Corporation, East Japan Railway Company, DB Cargo Group, and more. The competition emphasises sustainability in rail transport and showcases the global commitment to environmental responsibility.
MD Stated:
Shri Shalabh Goel, MD, NCRTC, stated, “These awards are a testament to NCRTC’s innovative approach to extensive multimodal integration, connecting RRTS stations with existing public transport modes such as MRTS, buses, and railway stations, along with various first- and last-mile connectivity options. It also highlights our sustained focus on commuter-centricity through the adoption of advanced technological solutions, including the world’s first-ever deployment of the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2 Hybrid Level 3 signalling over LTE, which enables seamless interoperability across upcoming RRTS corridors. The recognition further serves as a tribute to the valuable contributions of various stakeholders, particularly the Government of India, which has developed transformative ecosystems that have facilitated the rapid implementation of such mobility solutions.”
NCRTC’s Sustainable Contributions:
RRTS contributes to nine Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including efforts to combat climate change, promote clean energy, and support gender equality. With the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut corridor projected to cut 250,000 tons of vehicular emissions annually, it directly aligns with health, well-being, and clean energy goals.
Renewable Energy & Solar Mission:
NCRTC’s renewable energy initiatives under the RRTS project support Affordable and Clean Energy goals. With a plan to generate 11 MW of solar power on rooftops over the next five years, NCRTC significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions in line with India’s National Solar Mission.
Transit-Oriented Development (TOD):
By encouraging high-density, mixed-use urban spaces around transit hubs, NCRTC fosters Sustainable Cities and Communities. This approach optimizes land use, reduces urban sprawl, and promotes collaboration with municipalities for better urban planning.
Gender Equality & Inclusivity Initiatives:
Promoting gender-sensitive design and inclusivity, over 50% of RRTS train operators and station controllers are women. NCRTC’s design incorporates universal accessibility with dedicated women’s coaches, ramps, elevators, and tactile flooring.
Make in India Initiative & Future Network Expansion:
Developed under “Make in India,” RRTS technology boosts local industry and raises project standards internationally. The Delhi-Meerut RRTS will connect with future corridors like Delhi-Alwar and Delhi-Panipat, enhancing commuting and connectivity across NCR.
Conclusion:
NCRTC’s twin victories at the UIC Sustainability Impact Awards 2024 solidify its position as a global leader in sustainable urban transit. The awards reinforce its dedication to innovative, commuter-focused solutions, setting a benchmark for future urban mobility projects in India and across the globe.
Source: NCRTC – Press Release | Images Credit: NCRTC
