Modern Coaches to Enhance Comfort for Railway Passengers In Pune
Modern Coaches to Enhance Comfort for Railway Passengers In Pune
In a move to improve passenger comfort and safety, six trains departing from Pune will soon be equipped with modern ‘LHB’ (Link Hoffman Busch) coaches. This upgrade, set to commence from November 5, will benefit approximately 12,000 passengers currently traveling in outdated ‘ICF’ (Integral Coach Factory) coaches. The Railway Board has issued an order to replace the old ‘ICF’ coaches with the new ‘LHB’ coaches, known for their enhanced safety features and comfort. The Ministry of Railways has made this decision to ensure safer travel for passengers. These modern coaches are lighter and equipped with advanced features compared to the older models, significantly improving the overall travel experience.
The six trains approved for the new coaches include the Jhelum Express, Azad Hind Express, Ernakulam Express, Darbhanga Express, Ernakulam Superfast Express, and Danapur Express. The ‘ICF’ coaches, currently used in 11 trains and maintained in 23 trains in Pune, have a lifespan of 25 years and weigh between 22 to 25 tons. The outdated design of these coaches includes screw couplings, which can lead to severe consequences in the event of an accident. In contrast, the ‘LHB’ coaches offer improved safety, stability, and comfort, addressing these concerns effectively.
Apart from the newly approved trains, several other trains from Pune are already equipped with ‘LHB’ coaches. These trains include the Pune – Varanasi Gyanganga Express, Pune – Gorakhpur Weekly Express, Pune – Veraval Express, Pune – Bhuj Express, Pune – Ahmedabad Express, and Pune – Bhagat Ki Kothi Express. The evolution of railway coaches in India has seen significant advancements over the decades. Initially, wooden coaches were used during the pre-independence era. In 1955, a shift to iron coaches began, with the first prototype brought from Switzerland. By 1962, the Integral Coach Factory near Chennai started producing these coaches, marking a new era in Indian railway history.
The introduction of ‘LHB’ coaches represents a continued commitment to improving railway infrastructure and passenger experience. This modernization effort reflects the Railways’ dedication to leveraging advanced technology for safer and more comfortable travel.
