Selfies, slogans and spitting? Gutkha stains, litter spotted at newly-launched Namo Bharat RRTS stations

MEERUT: The newly inaugurated National Capital Region Transport Corporation’s Namo Bharat Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridor, connecting Delhi and Meerut, witnessed heavy footfall on its first full day of operations — but scenes of littering and gutkha stains at stations have raised concerns about commuter responsibility.A purported video circulating showed gutkha (chewing tobacco) stains on walls and in corners of the premises. In addition, several commuters were seen discarding used paper tokens and entry tickets on the floor instead of placing them in dustbins installed across the stations.The incidents come just days after PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the complete 82-km Delhi-Meerut corridor, marking the beginning of full commercial operations on the high-speed transit network.On Monday, the National Capital Region Transport Corporation recorded its highest-ever ridership, crossing the one lakh mark. With the last train departing at 10pm, officials had earlier indicated that total ridership was expected to surpass one lakh commuters — a milestone for the newly expanded route.Visuals from stations captured a festive atmosphere, with families and young passengers gathering in large numbers and taking selfies inside the trains and on platforms. Some commuters were seen chanting patriotic slogans and showering flower petals as trains arrived, reflecting the excitement surrounding the launch.However, alongside the celebratory mood, instances of spitting gutkha and littering paper tickets have drawn criticism on social media, with many urging stricter enforcement of cleanliness norms and penalties to maintain the world-class infrastructure.Designed for speeds of up to 180 kmph, the Namo Bharat system aims to significantly cut travel time between Delhi and key urban centres such as Sahibabad, Ghaziabad, Modinagar and Meerut. Urban planners and civic observers say maintaining hygiene and public discipline will be crucial to preserving the infrastructure and commuter experience in the long run.Officials are yet to issue a detailed statement on the littering incidents, but authorities are expected to step up awareness campaigns and enforcement measures to prevent damage to the newly launched service.