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Vande Bharat Express, also known as Train 18, is a high-speed train in India that was designed and developed by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai. It is the fastest train in India, with a maximum operating speed of 160 km/h (99 mph), and is intended to be a symbol of India’s technological capabilities. In this article, we will explore the history, features, and benefits of the Vande Bharat Express.
History of Vande Bharat Express
The idea for a high-speed train in India was first proposed in the 1980s, but it was not until 2015 that the Indian government approved the project. The project was entrusted to the Integral Coach Factory, and the first prototype of the train was unveiled in 2018. The train was subsequently named Vande Bharat Express and was inaugurated on February 15, 2019, by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi.
Features of Vande Bharat Express
Vande Bharat Express is a semi-high speed train that runs on electric traction and has several advanced features. The following are some of the key features of the train:
- Aerodynamic design: The train has a unique aerodynamic design that reduces air drag and increases its operating speed.
- Automatic doors: The train has automatic doors that open and close quickly, improving passenger safety.
- On-board Wi-Fi: Passengers can connect to high-speed Wi-Fi on board the train, which is available throughout the journey.
- CCTV cameras: The train has CCTV cameras installed in all coaches, ensuring the safety of passengers.
- LED lighting: The train uses LED lighting, which is energy-efficient and provides a comfortable environment for passengers.
- GPS-enabled passenger information system: The train has a GPS-enabled passenger information system that displays real-time information about the train’s location and estimated time of arrival at each station.
Benefits of Vande Bharat Express
The Vande Bharat Express has several benefits, both for passengers and for the Indian railways. The following are some of the key benefits of the train:
- Faster travel: The Vande Bharat Express is the fastest train in India, reducing travel time between cities.
- Increased safety: The train’s automatic doors and CCTV cameras increase passenger safety.
- Increased comfort: The train’s aerodynamic design, LED lighting, and Wi-Fi provide a comfortable environment for passengers.
- Reduced fuel consumption: The train’s aerodynamic design and energy-efficient features reduce fuel consumption, making it more environmentally friendly.
- Increased revenue: The Vande Bharat Express has been successful in attracting more passengers and generating more revenue for the Indian railways.
Facts and Figures about Vande Bharat Express
Here are some interesting facts and figures about Vande Bharat Express:
- The train has 16 coaches, including two executive class coaches and 14 chair car coaches.
- The train has a seating capacity of 1,128 passengers.
- The train’s power car is located at both ends of the train, allowing for faster acceleration and deceleration.
- The train’s construction cost was around Rs. 100 crore, and it took 18 months to design and develop the train.
- The train has successfully completed several journeys, including the Delhi-Katra and Delhi-Varanasi routes.
Currently 10 Vande Bharat trains are operational and connecting 108 districts across 17 states. The Mumbai Central – Gandhinagar Capital Vande Bharat Express was the third Vande Bharat Express in the country. This train was introduced on 30th September, 2022.
The Vande Bharat Express is a symbol of India’s technological capabilities and a testament to the Indian railways’ commitment to improving passenger safety, comfort, and speed. With its advanced features and benefits, the Vande Bharat Express is a significant step forward for the Indian railways and a source of pride for the Indian people.
