Railways rolls out unique, high-capacity coaches

New Delhi, Aug 16 (UNI) In tune with its 'volume game', the Railways has rolled out a special, high-capacity 17-coach train having an increased number of berths in both AC 3-tier and second class sleeper coaches and equipped with upgraded interiors, better aesthetics and modular toilet.

The cocahes of the train, which is to run between Indore and Patna on a weekly basis, have been manufactured by the Rail Coach Factory, Kapurthala.

The AC 3-tier coach of the train will have 72 berths as against 64 in a normal train while the capacity of sleeper class coaches has been increased to 81 as compared to 72 berths, thus increasing the capacity of both the cocahes by 12 per cent, a ministry official told UNI.

The additional berths have been made possible by creating space for three seats instead of two on the side berth in both AC 3-tier and sleeper class.

The official said middle berths had been provided in the longitudinal direction (side berth) of these coaches.

''These unique high-capacity coaches have been manufactured on an experimental basis and comprise two coaches of AC 2-tier, nine coaches of sleeper class, four general coaches and two luggage-cum-brake vans,'' he said.

The official said the first of its kind 17-coach rake would be attached with 9314 Express between Patna and Indore. ''The rake has been delivered at Patna station and it can be made operational from tomorrow.'' The coaches are fire-retardant and equipped with comfortable cushion and upholstery with better aesthetics and durability, stainless steel modular toilet in AC coaches and revised interior colour scheme.

Further, there would be polycarbonate mirror in lavatory with anti-pilferage features, besides control discharged taps for conservation of water. Even in second class coaches, there will be cushioned seats.

Railway Minister Lalu Prasad, while presenting the Rail Budget for the current financial year, had announced that the capacity of passenger coaches in various trains would be increased.

The minister had also announced four per cent rebate for the passengers travelling in such trains.

UNI