Rail Coach Factory (RCF) in Kapurthala, Punjab, is poised to mark a significant achievement with the scheduled rollout of its inaugural Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) broad-gauge passenger coach rake for Bangladesh Railway on August 12. This delivery represents a key milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the Indian railway manufacturing unit and its Bangladeshi counterpart.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the specialized rake comprises a total of 19 coaches. This configuration includes three air-conditioned (AC) sleeper cars, three AC chair cars, eleven non-AC chair cars, and two power cars. The coaches are distinguished by several advanced design modifications, many of which have been developed for the first time for LHB-type rolling stock, aiming to enhance both operational efficiency and passenger experience.
These coaches have been meticulously customized to align with the specific operational demands and passenger service expectations of Bangladesh Railway. To ensure elevated passenger comfort, both the AC and non-AC chair coaches are equipped with specially designed reclining chairs. These seating arrangements feature integrated stainless steel armrests and footrests, offering multiple adjustable positions to cater to individual preferences during journeys.
A suite of passenger-centric amenities has been incorporated into the coach design. These include the provision of fans within the AC coaches, a comprehensive integrated CCTV surveillance system for security, an audible passenger alarm system for emergencies, partially openable windows for ventilation, a dedicated baby care room, and a prayer room, reflecting a commitment to diverse passenger needs.
Understanding the unique operating conditions prevalent in Bangladesh, particularly concerning the potential for additional loading on roofs during peak traffic periods, the roof structure of these coaches has been significantly strengthened. This structural enhancement is designed to safely accommodate unforeseen circumstances and ensure the integrity of the coaches under various operational stresses.
A notable technological advancement featured in this new fleet of coaches is the integration of crashworthy design provisions. These provisions adhere to the stringent European Standard EN 15227, a requirement that necessitated extensive redesigning of the car body shell. The primary objective of this redesign is to significantly improve collision performance and bolster passenger safety during potential incidents.
The electrical system installed in these coaches has also undergone specialized design modifications. It operates on a 415-volt system, a departure from the conventional 750-volt system commonly utilized in coaches manufactured for Indian Railways. This adaptation is intended to meet the specific electrical requirements and infrastructure of Bangladesh Railway.
The cooperative relationship between Rail Coach Factory and Bangladesh Railway traces its origins back to the 2015-16 period, when RCF successfully supplied an initial consignment of 120 LHB broad-gauge passenger coaches to Bangladesh. This earlier successful partnership laid the groundwork for future collaborations. Building upon this established rapport, Bangladesh Railway, through the RITES (Rail India Technical and Economic Service) organization, again placed a significant order in 2024. This order is for the manufacture and supply of 200 broad-gauge passenger coaches, to be delivered in seven distinct variants, further cementing the bilateral railway cooperation.
The upcoming rollout of this 19-coach rake is positioned as another important contribution by RCF Kapurthala to India’s expanding profile in railway coach exports. It also signifies a continued strengthening of the enduring partnership between RCF and Bangladesh Railway, highlighting India’s growing role in supporting railway infrastructure development in neighboring countries.
The Chenab Times News Desk