Vande Metro trains set to revolutionize intercity travel, operational by July

Officials close to the development have revealed that India’s first Vande Metro trains will commence operations in July, marking a significant milestone in the country’s transportation sector. Designed to cater to intercity passengers travelling up to 250 km, these trains will feature 12 coaches with seating arrangements akin to metro trains and are expected to run at a maximum speed of 130 km per hour.

According to one official, the Vande Metro trains aim to revolutionize the travel experience, offering a comfortable and efficient medium-distance commute. The bench-type seating arrangement maximizes passenger capacity, ensuring a convenient journey for commuters.

Trials for the Vande Metro trains will be completed in the next two months, following which they will be operational by July, stated a second official. These coaches are being manufactured at the Rail Coach Factory (RCF) in Kapurthala and are in their final stages of production.

Highlighting the safety features of the trains, another railway official mentioned that each coach will be equipped with sensors for fire and smoke detection. Additionally, the Kavach system will be installed to prevent collisions, enhancing passenger safety.

In terms of passenger convenience, the trains will feature wheelchair-accessible lavatories and wide gangways between coaches to facilitate smooth movement within the train. Windows and doors are designed for both safety and convenience, with wider openable hopper-type windows for emergency situations and spacious entrances featuring wider doors.

To further enhance passenger comfort, automatic plug doors at the entrance and touch-free doors in the compartment area will also be provided, stated the railway official. The Indian Railways (IR) plans to initially roll out the Vande Metro trains with 12 coaches but may extend them up to 16 as per demand.

In addition to the Vande Metro trains, the IR is also introducing Vande Bharat chair cars and sleeper trains to cater to passengers of all categories. The trial run of Vande Bharat sleeper trains is expected to commence next week, as per a third official. These modern trains, featuring contemporary interior designs, are projected to be operational by 2025, promising to reduce travel time by two hours compared to other trains. With the prototype nearing completion, the Vande Metro trains herald a new era of efficient and comfortable intercity travel in India.