BEML unveils India’s First 16-Coach Vande Bharat Sleeper Trainset

MRT Online Desk Posted on: 2024-09-01 17:30:00 Viewer: 1,925 Comments: 0 Country: India City: Bengaluru

BEML unveils India’s First 16-Coach Vande Bharat Sleeper Trainset

Bengaluru, India (Metro Rail Today):  In a momentous occasion for Indian rail infrastructure, Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Union Minister for Railways, today inaugurated India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset at BEML’s Bangalore rail complex. This groundbreaking development is significant for Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML), India's foremost rail and metro manufacturer. The Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset, entirely designed and constructed by BEML, underscores a pivotal leap in the nation's rail capabilities.

A New Era in Rail Transport: The Vande Bharat Sleeper Trainset

The Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset, a pioneering project in India, merges aesthetic elegance with unparalleled functionality. This new trainset features an Austenitic stainless-steel construction and integrates advanced crash-worthy components to ensure maximum passenger safety. The design incorporates specially engineered crash buffers and couplers, adhering to the rigorous EN45545 HL3 grade requirements for fire safety.

The trainset’s design reflects a commitment to world-class standards, boasting many modern amenities and safety features. Among these are integrated reading lights with USB charging ports, public announcement systems, visual information displays, and security cameras. The sleeper train also includes modular pantries, specially designed berths and toilets for differently-abled passengers, and advanced rail safety measures such as the Kavach system. The 1st AC car further enhances passenger comfort with facilities like showers with hot water.

Expansion of Manufacturing Capabilities

In conjunction with the trainset’s unveiling, Vaishnaw laid the foundation stone for a new Hangar facility at BEML’s Bangalore complex. This facility, spanning 9.2 acres, is dedicated to the manufacturing of standard and broad-gauge rolling stock, aimed at bolstering BEML's global export capabilities. The expansion is expected to enhance BEML’s production capacity and further solidify its position in the international rail manufacturing market.

Key Features and Specifications

The Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset, designed to operate at speeds of up to 160 km/h, includes 16 coaches with various configurations: 11 AC three-tier, four AC two-tier, and one AC first-class coach. It accommodates a total of 823 berths, distributed as follows: 611 in AC three-tier coaches, 188 in AC two-tier coaches, and 24 in the AC first-class coach.

The trainset integrates several notable features:

  • Crash-Worthy Elements: Enhanced safety features including crash buffers and couplers.
  • High Safety Standards: Compliance with EN45545 HL3 grade for fire safety.
  • Advanced Comfort Features: Integrated reading lights with USB charging, modular pantries, and showers in the 1st AC car.
  • Accessibility: Special berths and toilets for differently-abled passengers.
  • Modern Interior Design: Ergonomically designed GFRP panels, sensor-based doors, and advanced HVAC systems.

Dignitaries and Remarks

The inauguration ceremony was attended by key dignitaries including V. Somanna, Minister of State for Railways; Satish Kumar, Chairman & CEO of the Railway Board; and Shantanu Roy, Chairman & Managing Director of BEML. Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the significance of this milestone, stating, “This is a historic moment for the country. The much-awaited Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset is now set to run on Indian Railways tracks, providing our people with a world-class travel experience and best-in-class amenities. The dedication and expertise of BEML's leadership and engineers have made this remarkable achievement possible.”

Shantanu Roy, CMD of BEML, echoed this sentiment, remarking, "Building on our rich legacy of manufacturing top-tier rail coaches over the past six decades, BEML has once again demonstrated its strength in rail manufacturing, making the nation proud. This project stands as an iconic landmark in modern India's transportation infrastructure, one that future generations will remember."

The introduction of the Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset marks a transformative moment for Indian Railways, showcasing a blend of advanced technology, superior design, and commitment to passenger safety and comfort. BEML’s achievement in crafting this state-of-the-art trainset not only highlights its manufacturing prowess but also sets a new benchmark for long-distance rail travel in India. As the Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset prepares to enter service, it promises to enhance the travel experience for millions, aligning Indian rail infrastructure with global standards of excellence.





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