India takes a significant stride in its railway sector with the unveiling of the carbody structure for its pioneering Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset. Manufactured by BEML Ltd at its rail unit in Bangalore, this development marks a notable advancement in the country’s transportation infrastructure.
Comfort and Safety at the Core
Designed to enhance commuter mobility and comfort, the Vande Bharat Sleeper version promises a seamless travel experience with global standards. Crafted from high-grade Austenitic stainless steel, the carbody structure incorporates crashworthy elements within the crash buffers and couplers, ensuring stringent safety measures.
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Exquisite Design and Functionality
Attention to detail defines the interior and exterior of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains. From the sleek nose cone to the interior panels, sleeper berths, and beyond, every aspect is meticulously designed to merge aesthetic appeal with functionality. BEML has meticulously engineered critical systems such as electrical, propulsion, and brake systems, ensuring optimal performance and integration throughout the trainset.
Setting New Standards in Passenger Comfort
The introduction of Vande Bharat Sleeper trains establishes a new benchmark in passenger comfort and convenience. With world-class facilities and best-in-class interiors, these trains signify India’s commitment to enhancing the travel experience for its citizens.
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Car Formation
A groundbreaking new high-speed train has been unveiled, boasting cutting-edge features and exceptional performance capabilities. The train is comprised of a total of 16 cars per trainset, each serving a specific function within the formation.
- DTC/DTC2 (Driving Trailer Car): 2 cars
- MC/MC2 (Motor Car): 8 cars
- TC (Trailer Car): 4 cars
- NDTC/NDTC2 (Non-Driving Trailer Car): 2 cars
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Berths
- AC 3 Tier Berths: 611
- AC 2 Tier Berths: 188
- First Class AC Berths: 24
Performance of the Train
The newly unveiled high-speed train showcases remarkable performance metrics, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey for passengers.
- Maximum Operational Speed: During regular service, the train can achieve a top speed of 160 km/h, providing rapid transportation between destinations.
- Testing Speed: During rigorous testing, the train has demonstrated its capability to reach an impressive speed of 180 km/h, ensuring reliability and safety under various conditions.
- Deceleration: The train’s braking system is designed to deliver optimal performance, with a minimum deceleration of 0.8 m/s² during full-service braking, adhering to strict safety standards. Additionally, the train can achieve a maximum deceleration of 1 m/s² at any speed, ensuring swift and controlled stops when necessary.
- Broad Gauge: The train operates on a broad gauge track, with a width of 1676 mm, ensuring stability and efficiency during travel.
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Orders and Future Plans
Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai, has placed an order with BEML Limited for the design, manufacture, and commissioning of 10 Rakes of 16 cars Vande Bharat Sleeper version trainsets. These trains are designed to seamlessly transition from chair car variants to sleeper versions while meeting crashworthiness and fire safety requirements.
Special Features Enhance Travel Experience
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Trainsets boast a range of special features designed to elevate the passenger experience:
- Austenitic Stainless Steel Carbody: Ensures durability and safety.
- Crashworthy Features: Integrated for passenger safety.
- Best-in-class Interiors: Equipped with GFRP panels for aesthetic appeal.
- Aerodynamic Exterior: Enhances efficiency and aesthetics.
- Modular Pantry: Provides convenience for passengers.
- Fire Safety: Adheres to EN 45545 standards for Hazard Level 03.
- Accessibility Features: Includes special berths and toilets for differently-abled passengers.
- Automatic Passenger Doors: Enhance safety and convenience.
- Sensor-based Intercommunication Doors: Ensure seamless communication between compartments.
- Ergonomic Toilet System: Odor-free and designed for comfort.
- Modern Amenities: Including integrated reading lights with USB charging provisions and public announcement systems.
- Spacious Luggage Room: Provides ample storage space for passengers.
The introduction of India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset carbody structure represents a significant leap forward in the country’s railway capabilities. With its focus on safety, comfort, and innovation, it promises to redefine the travel experience for millions across the nation.
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The ongoing maintenance is a failure in India due to corrupt contractors and railway officials dirty nexus. Dirty attendants, filthy food, cockroaches creepin and travellers misbehave as they feel they own the train for overnight journeys as they have paid for the tkt – traveller’s have ZERO civic sense. So any upgradation is going to 100% FAIL in India.
True. Such trains must be run inbetween metro cities only as, unfortunately, most of tier-II & III city passengers show no civic sense.