The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) is working on its flagship project for the Hydrogen Fuel Cell train set. Hydrogen fuel cell coaches are currently under production at ICF. The train set is likely to be turned out by March, said U Subba Rao, GM, ICF.
In his Republic Day speech on Sunday, Rao said ICF had achieved a milestone of manufacturing the 75,000th coach on June 26, 2024. “We have so far rolled out 81 rakes of Vande Bharat Chair Car Version-II, which includes two rakes for Jammu & Kashmir. These rakes are fitted with improved seats, infotainment, gangways, and other passenger amenities,” he said.
The Namo Bharat train, popularly known as Vande Metro, was also from the ICF stable – it was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 16, 2024, and is currently running between Ahmedabad and Bhuj.
“We have made significant progress on the Vande Sleeper train as well, which is aimed at catering to the needs of passengers for overnight travel. The first rake has been manufactured and has completed speed and oscillation trials. The results of the trials are really encouraging, and the rake is likely to be inducted into service in the coming months. Vande Sleeper reached a peak speed of 180 kmph during the testing,” he said.
To cater to the Non-AC sector, Amrit Bharat Express Trains are going to be launched in a big way by the Indian Railways. These trains are aimed to provide modern facilities to the common public at an affordable cost. The trains are designed to work in push-pull configuration, having sleeper and general coaches. The train is fitted with modular toilets, ergonomically designed seats & berths, emergency talk- back systems and continuous LED lighting.
The first rake of Amrit Bharat Version-II is scheduled to be turned out by the end of January 2025. ICF has to manufacture 50 Amrit Bharat rakes in the next two years. The coaches of Amrit Bharat train were showcased to the Railway Minister during his visit to ICF on January 10, he said.