Indian Railways all set to procure 50 New Push-Pull Amrit Bharat Express Trains

New Delhi, India (Urban Transport News): In a significant move towards modernizing its fleet, the Indian Railways is set to place an order worth Rs 2,000 crore for the manufacturing of 50 push-pull trains. These trains, equipped with advanced features, will be produced at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai and Rail Coach Factory (RCF) in Kapurthala, marking a strategic shift in the railway's approach.

Pushing for Progress: The Manufacturing Hub

The manufacturing hub for these locomotives will be the Chittaranjan Locomotive Works (CLW) in West Bengal. This investment underscores the railway's commitment to enhancing its operational capabilities and providing passengers with a more comfortable and efficient travel experience.

Transition from LHB to Modern Coaches

This order signals a gradual transition from the Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coach regime to upgraded coaches boasting contemporary features. The push-pull configuration allows trains to be operated from either end, presenting a dynamic approach to railway travel.

Vande Bharat's Influence: Shaping the Future of Rail Travel

The Vande Bharat trains, known for their indigenous build and comfortable seating, have already made their mark on Shatabdi routes. The upcoming Vande Bharat sleeper trains, set to operate on Rajdhani routes, will further diversify the railway's offerings, catering to different travel preferences.

Push-Pull Dynamics Explained

The push-pull arrangement involves attaching a locomotive at both ends of the train, enabling simultaneous propulsion from both ends. This innovative setup enhances operational flexibility and reduces the need for turning the locomotive at terminals.

Fare Structure and Comparative Analysis

While the Vande Bharat trains have a fare approximately 40 per cent higher than Shatabdi's base fare, the push-pull train fare is 15 per cent higher than traditional mail or express fares. This difference reflects the investment in advanced technology and enhanced travel experience.

Amrit Bharat Express: Unveiling the Future of Rail Journeys

The recent introduction of two push-pull trains, named Amrit Bharat Express, signifies a new era in railway travel. These trains, connecting Darbhanga-Ayodhya-Anand Vihar and Malda Town-Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminus (Bengaluru) routes, were strategically chosen to cater to the significant influx of migrants seeking job opportunities in larger cities.

State-of-the-Art Features

The Amrit Bharat trains boast state-of-the-art features, including enhanced acceleration for efficient starts and stops. This not only saves time at curves, bridges, and stations but also ensures a smooth travel experience without jerks. The semi-permanent couplers guarantee efficient brake functioning, preventing abrupt movements.

Future Plans for AC Coaches

Currently, the push-pull trains feature non-AC coaches. However, there are plans to introduce air-conditioned coaches in the future, offering passengers a wider range of travel options.

Advantages of Push-Pull Configuration

The push-pull configuration presents several advantages, including a higher acceleration system for faster travel and an improved braking system for quicker stops. With locomotives at both the front and rear, the need to change the loco position for the return journey is eliminated, contributing to a more efficient and time-saving travel experience.

Conclusion

The Indian Railways' decision to order 50 new push-pull trains marks a pivotal moment in the modernization and enhancement of the country's railway infrastructure. This strategic move reflects a commitment to providing passengers with cutting-edge technology, comfort, and efficiency in their rail journeys. As the railway system evolves, embracing innovations such as the push-pull configuration, it sets the stage for a transformative era in Indian rail travel.