Why the Engineer Behind Vande Bharat Express is Disappointed with the Amrit Bharat Train: Key Insights

Indian Railways has recently introduced the Amrit Bharat trains, aimed at increasing accessibility for travelers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off four new non-AC trains, part of a plan to run 100 such trains across major routes. The Amrit Bharat trains feature 12 sleeper coaches and 8 general coaches, promoting themselves as a low-cost option for passengers.

However, Sudhanshu Mani, the former General Manager of the Integral Coach Factory and creator of the Vande Bharat Express, has expressed concerns. He believes that non-AC trains have no place in a modern, developing India. “We should be moving towards a future where even the poor have access to air-conditioned trains,” he said in a recent interview.

Mani argues that the government should phase out non-AC sleeper trains. He feels that providing better amenities for the less fortunate is essential. Instead, he suggests the focus should be on expanding the Vande Bharat fleet, which has become popular due to its speed and modern features.

Currently, Vande Bharat trains run at an average speed of 70 to 90 km/h, but Mani believes this can be increased to 100 to 150 km/h, providing an even better experience for passengers willing to pay a little more.

Interestingly, a recent survey shows that 74% of Indian travelers prefer air-conditioned options for long-distance travel. This indicates a growing demand for modern amenities in trains, suggesting that the focus should be on enhancing services rather than rolling back to older models.

The Amrit Bharat trains are designed as push-pull trains, meaning they have engines at both ends, which allows for quicker turnaround times. This design is part of the government’s initiative to make train travel faster and more efficient.

As Indian Railways continues to evolve, the debate between traditional non-AC options and modern efficient trains like Vande Bharat will likely remain a hot topic among travelers and experts alike.

For more details, you can read the report from the Ministry of Railways here.

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