The Rail Coach Factory (RCF) in Kapurthala, Punjab, aims to unveil the first prototype of the Vande Metro coach designed for intercity travel by April this year, announced its general manager S. Srinivas. He further revealed that a total of 16 such coaches are anticipated to be ready by the later part of the 2024-25 financial year.
Vande Metro: Features and Design
The Vande Metro, inspired by India’s indigenous semi-high-speed train Vande Bharat, will serve intercity passengers covering distances up to 250 km. Each train will consist of 16 air-conditioned coaches capable of running at a maximum speed of 130 km per hour.
To ensure passenger comfort, the coaches will boast a spacious 3×3 bench-type seating arrangement, automatic plug doors at the entrance, touch-free doors in the compartment area, and wider openable hopper-type windows for emergency situations.
Passenger Experience Enhancements
Srinivas emphasized that Vande Metro trains aim to enhance passenger experience and accessibility. Each coach will accommodate 280 passengers, with a seating capacity of 100 and a standing capacity of 180.
Safety Measures and Amenities
The coaches will feature a passenger talkback system for emergency communication with the train driver, as well as 14 sensors for fire and smoke detection. Wheelchair-accessible lavatories will be available, along with the Kavach system to prevent collisions.
Other RCF Initiatives
Srinivas highlighted RCF’s recent accomplishments, including the rollout of special Rajdhani sleeper coaches and the successful trials of Vistadome coaches for the Kalka-Shimla route. Additionally, RCF engineers have developed a double-decker cargo liner coach currently undergoing trials on the Ambala-Sahnewal section.
As a crucial unit of Indian Railways, RCF continues to innovate and contribute to the country’s railway infrastructure. With over 43,000 coaches manufactured since its establishment in 1988, RCF remains committed to advancing rail travel in India.
(With PTI Inputs)