With an unwavering focus on the comfort and convenience of general passengers, Indian Railways is set to introduce two state-of-the-art non-air conditioned trains, uniquely powered by push-pull locomotives, connecting the bustling cities of Patna and Mumbai.
In the innovative push-pull locomotion system, two locomotives, strategically positioned at both ends of the train, work in tandem under the guidance of a single operator. This method is renowned for enhancing train speed and efficiency, reducing station dwell times, and ultimately elevating the overall travel experience.
Given the evergreen popularity of travel between Mumbai and Patna, these two prominent destinations have been chosen as the initial routes. However, discussions are ongoing regarding a third route, possibly in the southern region, although a final decision remains pending.
Each push-pull train, devoid of air conditioning, boasts a remarkable composition of 22 coaches, including 12 sleeper coaches, eight unreserved coaches, and two luggage vans, offering an impressive total of 1,834 berths and seating spaces.
The inaugural push-pull train, meticulously crafted at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF), is scheduled for deployment on the 23rd of October. It will embark on a trial run along the Igatpuri section in the Central Zone, evaluating its performance and efficiency. Subsequently, the second train, prepared to set off on the 30th of October, will undergo a trial run spanning from Ahmedabad to Mumbai within the Western Zone.
With both locomotives boasting an impressive 5,500 horsepower capacity each, these 22-coach marvels are poised to deliver swifter and more efficient travel experiences.
A high-ranking railway official stated, “Our overarching goal is to deliver superior travel experiences while maintaining cost-efficiency for the common passenger.”
These two push-pull trains aim to elevate passenger comfort and amenity standards, while ensuring they match the impressive speeds characteristic of the Vande Bharat trains, albeit sans air conditioning.
Chittaranjan Locomotive Works in West Bengal is the production site for the two locomotives, with each unit estimated to cost a substantial Rs 28 crore. Concurrently, the modern Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches are under construction at the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai.
The introduction of non-air conditioned push-pull trains meets a longstanding demand for trains that offer a heightened level of luxury and pace, similar to the esteemed Vande Bharat services. These new trains are positioned to cater to the needs of common passengers, whose budgets may not accommodate the higher fares associated with Vande Bharat’s air-conditioned services.
It’s worth noting that these dual-engine electric locomotives have the potential to haul air-conditioned coaches, a versatility tailored to passenger demand.
The ambitious push-pull train project, featuring 22 coaches in each unit, boasts an estimated cost of nearly Rs 60 crore.
