Infrastructure
V Bhagya Subhashini
Mar 20, 2024, 01:33 PM | Updated 01:30 PM IST
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In a bid to improve the travel experience for passengers on non-Vande trains, the Union government is set to introduce additional Amrit Bharat trains in the fiscal year 2024-25.
It aims to produce 50 of these trains utilising the production facilities of the Ministry of Railways.
According to the railway board officials, a total of 1,230 coaches will be manufactured for this purpose. The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, Modern Coach Factory (MCF) in Raebareli, and Rail Coach Factory (RCF) in Kapurthala will be responsible for manufacturing these coaches.
ICF and RCF will each produce 492 Amrit Bharat coaches, while MCF will manufacture 246 coaches, reports Business Standard.
Amrit Bharat trains are characterised by their high-speed capabilities and unique Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) push-pull design, featuring non-air-conditioned coaches.
These trains utilise engines positioned at both the front and rear, with the front engine pulling the train and the rear engine assisting in pushing it forward.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw previously highlighted the advantages of this push-pull configuration, citing improved acceleration, deceleration, and optimised travel times, particularly in challenging terrains like bridges and curves.
The implementation of semi-coupler technology minimises jerking during starts and stops, while the adoption of a semi-permanent coupler enhances passenger comfort and safety.
The design of Amrit Bharat Express trains incorporates various features aimed at enhancing the overall travel experience.
These include horizontal sliding windows, wider gangways with dust-sealing, aerosol-based fire suppression systems in toilets and electrical cubicles, emergency disaster management lights, floor guide fluorescent strips, and a bench-type design for LWS coaches.
Looking ahead, India plans to manufacture at least 1,000 new-generation Amrit Bharat trains in the coming years, with efforts underway to develop trains capable of operating at speeds of up to 250 kmph.
The incorporation of segregated reserved and unreserved coaches with sliding doors further ensures an enhanced and secure travel experience for all passengers.
V Bhagya Subhashini is a staff writer at Swarajya. She tracks infrastructure developments.