Upgraded Indian Railways train readies for trials
RAILWAYS & METRO RAIL

Upgraded Indian Railways train readies for trials

A new Indian Railways project, designed to provide an upgraded train experience for the common man, is soon to undergo trials. This train, currently under construction at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, is set to feature enhanced second-class 3-tier sleeper coaches and second-class unreserved coaches. While its name is yet to be determined, it will incorporate some features reminiscent of the Vande Bharat Express trains.

The 22-coach train will consist of 8 General Second Class coaches, 12 non-AC sleeper cars, and 2 luggage-cum-guard vans. The train's interiors are designed to prioritise passenger safety and comfort, offering features like gangways, semi-permanent couplers, and destination boards.

Notably, the train will operate using the push-pull method, involving two locomotives, one at each end, to achieve higher speeds and efficiency. These locomotives, designed with an aerodynamic profile, are being produced by Chittaranjan Locomotive Works (CLW). In contrast, the Vande Bharat Express is a self-propelled train set.

ICF General Manager BG Mallya stated that work on the train is progressing well, with the push-pull upgraded sleeper train expected to be ready for trials at ICF by mid-October. Once the WAP5 locomotives are delivered from CLW, testing can commence, and the new train is anticipated to be ready for trials by the end of October.

This new train, incorporating Vande Bharat Express-style features, aims to provide an elevated travel experience for the common man and may offer an improved alternative to existing Antyodaya trains.

A new Indian Railways project, designed to provide an upgraded train experience for the common man, is soon to undergo trials. This train, currently under construction at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, is set to feature enhanced second-class 3-tier sleeper coaches and second-class unreserved coaches. While its name is yet to be determined, it will incorporate some features reminiscent of the Vande Bharat Express trains. The 22-coach train will consist of 8 General Second Class coaches, 12 non-AC sleeper cars, and 2 luggage-cum-guard vans. The train's interiors are designed to prioritise passenger safety and comfort, offering features like gangways, semi-permanent couplers, and destination boards. Notably, the train will operate using the push-pull method, involving two locomotives, one at each end, to achieve higher speeds and efficiency. These locomotives, designed with an aerodynamic profile, are being produced by Chittaranjan Locomotive Works (CLW). In contrast, the Vande Bharat Express is a self-propelled train set. ICF General Manager BG Mallya stated that work on the train is progressing well, with the push-pull upgraded sleeper train expected to be ready for trials at ICF by mid-October. Once the WAP5 locomotives are delivered from CLW, testing can commence, and the new train is anticipated to be ready for trials by the end of October. This new train, incorporating Vande Bharat Express-style features, aims to provide an elevated travel experience for the common man and may offer an improved alternative to existing Antyodaya trains.

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

India To Invest $37 Billion To Boost Petrochemical Capacity

India is set to become a major global player in the petrochemicals industry, driven by a planned capital expenditure of $37 billion (Rs 3.1 trillion) aimed at reducing import dependency and enhancing self-sufficiency, according to S&P Global Ratings.In its latest report titled “First China, Now India: Self-Sufficiency Goals Will Add To Petrochemicals Supply”, S&P said India’s large-scale capacity expansion—mirroring China’s earlier push—will likely intensify oversupply pressures in Asia’s petrochemical markets.Currently the world’s third-largest petrochemical consumer a..

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

Indian Railways Expands Global Exports Of Rail Equipment

Indian Railways has announced that it is rapidly emerging as a global exporter of railway equipment, including bogies, coaches, locomotives, and propulsion systems, under the government’s ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ initiative.According to an official statement, India’s railway products are now reaching over 16 international markets, reflecting the country’s growing capacity to design, develop, and deliver world-class rail solutions.Metro coaches have been exported to Australia and Canada; bogies to the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, France, and Australia; propulsion systems t..

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

RailTel Awards Rs 163 Million Contract To RTNS Technology

RailTel Corporation of India Limited (RailTel), a Mini Ratna Public Sector Undertaking, has awarded a domestic work order worth Rs 163 million to RTNS Technology Private Limited.The contract, issued on 30 September 2025, involves the supply and installation of equipment and related services for one of RailTel’s key customers. The project underscores RailTel’s commitment to advancing technology and communication infrastructure through collaboration with domestic system integrators.RTNS Technology Private Limited, an ISO-certified system integrator, provides comprehensive solutions for perim..

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?