Train 18 to start journey between New Delhi-Varanasi soon

"The Train 18 will make its first journey between New Delhi and Varanasi, via Kanpur and Prayagraj after completing formalities," a senior railway ministry official told IANS. "And once the formalities of trials are completed, it would be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi," he said. Image source: IANS

Train 18 is undergoing extensive trial and a few more trials are to undertaken under the supervision of Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO), Lucknow. It has successfully completed the trial up to a speed of 180 kmph. Image source: IANS

The official also pointed out that the engine-less train, which is capable of running at a maximum speed of 200 kmph will cover the distance of 755 km in eight hours. The official said that Train 18, which is self-propelled on electric traction like metro trains, will start replacing the existing train fleet of the Shatabdi Express next year. Image source: IANS

According to the official, Train 18 will be the fastest train on the route as the current fastest train takes around 11 and a half hours to complete the same distance. However, he refused to share the details of the actual train time-table of the train. Asked about the fare structure of the train, the official said that it has not been worked out yet. Image source: IANS

The official also pointed out that the Train 18 is likely to be introduced in the service before the Kumbh Mela.  Image source: IANS

The new train has a number of features to enhance passenger comfort which include inter-connected fully-sealed gangways, automatic doors with retractable footsteps, onboard Wi-Fi and infotainment, GPS-based passenger information system, modular toilets with bio-vacuum systems, rotational seats which can be aligned in the direction of travel (available only in the executive class), roller blinds and diffused LED lighting, and disabled-friendly toilets. Image source: IANS