Indian Railways (IR) is taking significant steps to improve travel experiences for general-class passengers. By November 2024, over 1,000 new GS (general seating) coaches will be introduced to nearly 370 regular trains, accommodating approximately one lakh additional passengers daily. This initiative reflects IR’s dedication to inclusivity and meeting increasing travel demands.
Northeast Frontier Railway’s Contribution
The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) is playing a pivotal role in this expansion. According to Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, CPRO of NFR, the zone has already enhanced 36 trains and 69 rakes with 276 GS coaches. By December 2024, three more trains will be equipped with 16 additional GS coaches, ensuring greater convenience for passengers within and beyond the region.
Large-Scale Fleet Expansion
Between July and October 2024, Indian Railways added 600 GS coaches across 370 trains. By November, this number is expected to reach 1,000. Over the next two years, IR plans to introduce over 10,000 non-AC coaches, including more than 6,000 GS and additional sleeper coaches, allowing up to 8 lakh extra passengers to travel daily.
Advanced LHB Coaches for Comfort and Safety
The newly introduced coaches are based on the modern LHB (Linke Hofmann Busch) design, known for their lightweight construction, enhanced safety, and improved speed capabilities. LHB coaches offer superior passenger safety compared to traditional ICF coaches, sustaining minimal damage during accidents.
Focus on Accessibility and Inclusivity
This initiative underscores Indian Railways’ commitment to making train journeys more accessible, safer, and comfortable for all passengers. With continuous efforts like these, IR aims to transform rail travel into a more inclusive and convenient mode of transportation nationwide.