10 Vande Bharat sleeper trains under production, 200 rakes contract awarded
The Minister also highlighted the shift to manufacturing modern Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches exclusively since April 2018. Over the past decade (2014-2024), Indian Railways produced 36,933 LHB coaches-16 times the output of the previous decade. LHB coaches boast advanced safety features such as anti-climbing arrangements, air suspension systems with failure indicators, and less corrosive materials.
Indian Railways is ramping up its efforts to modernize long and medium-distance travel with the production of 10 Vande Bharat Sleeper trains currently underway. The first prototype has been manufactured and is set to undergo field trials soon. Furthermore, contracts for manufacturing 200 Vande Bharat Sleeper rakes have been awarded to technology partners, with rollout timelines contingent upon the successful completion of trials.
As of December 2, 2024, 136 Vande Bharat train services, primarily Chair Car-equipped, are operational on the broad gauge electrified network, catering to short and medium-distance journeys across the country. Railway Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw stated in the Lok Sabha that Vande Bharat Express trains have achieved an overall occupancy rate of over 100% by October 2024, offering a world-class travel experience to passengers.
The Minister also highlighted the shift to manufacturing modern Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches exclusively since April 2018. Over the past decade (2014-2024), Indian Railways produced 36,933 LHB coaches—16 times the output of the previous decade. LHB coaches boast advanced safety features such as anti-climbing arrangements, air suspension systems with failure indicators, and less corrosive materials.
In alignment with the “Sugamya Bharat Mission” (Accessible India Campaign), Indian Railways is enhancing accessibility for Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjans) and passengers with reduced mobility. By November 2024, 1,512 escalators and 1,607 lifts had been installed across 399 and 609 stations, respectively—showing significant growth over the previous decade.
Key facilities under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, include ramps, accessible parking, Braille and tactile signage, low-height counters, and dedicated coaches with wide entrances and accessible washrooms. Vande Bharat trains stand out with their automatic doors, wheelchair parking spaces, and Braille signage, further cementing Indian Railways' commitment to inclusive travel.
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