
Eastern Railway is committed to enhancing passenger travel reliability and convenience by introducing Vistadome Coaches and installing lifts across its network. Additionally, Indian Railways plans to roll out 10,000 non-AC coaches to cater to the needs of common railway passengers, ensuring more comfortable and accessible travel options for all.
More Details:
Modernisation is an ongoing process in Indian Railways, a number of steps have been taken by the Railways to develop infrastructure, modernising the system and provide better journey experience to the passengers. Marching ahead in this direction to provide a more comfortable journey with ever remembering experience, Vistadome coaches attached with Howrah – New Jalpaiguri – Howrah Shatabdi Express train and lifts are inaugurated by the Eastern Railway.
The Vistadome coach comes with a host of impressive features designed to elevate the travel experience:
- Observation Lounge: Allows passengers to enjoy panoramic views of the scenic routes.
- Larger Transparent Windows: Provides an unobstructed view of the passing landscapes.
- Electrically Controlled Glass Windows in the Roof: Offers a unique sky view, enhancing the overall experience.

Image Credit (representational): Eastern Railway
- Aesthetically Designed Fibre Reinforced Polymer Interior: Ensures a pleasing and modern interior design.
- Ergonomically Designed Reclining Seats: Offers superior comfort for passengers.
- GPS Based Public Address cum Passenger Information System: Keeps passengers informed and updated throughout the journey.
- Automatic Sliding Doors: Enhances convenience and accessibility.
- Fire Detection with Alarm System: Ensures passenger safety.
- CCTV Surveillance: Adds an extra layer of security.
- Modular Toilets with Pressurised Flushing System & Bio Tanks: Maintains hygiene and cleanliness.
Lifts for Providing Seamless Mobility:
A total of 69 lifts are being implemented across various stations of Eastern Railway, providing seamless mobility and convenience to passengers. These lift installations aim to provide:
- Improved accessibility for passengers with mobility issues
- Enhanced overall passenger experience

Image Credit (representational): South Eastern Railway
- Increased efficiency in passenger movement
- Better management of crowd during peak hours
- Reduced congestion on staircases and platforms
- Easy access to platforms, concourses, and other areas of the station
10,000 Non-AC Coaches for Common Railway Passengers to be Manufactured:
- Indian Railways plans to manufacture 10,000 Non-AC coaches over the next two fiscal years (2024-25 and 2025-26).

Image Credit (representational): MoR
- This initiative aims to enhance facilities for common railway passengers.
- In the next two years, the overall count of Non-AC coaches will be increased by 22%.
Detailed Breakdown for FY 2024-25:
- Total production planned: 2,605 General coaches, 1,470 Non-AC Sleeper coaches, 323 SLR coaches, 32 High Capacity Parcel Vans, and 55 Pantry cars.
- Includes Amrit Bharat General, Sleeper, and SLR coaches designed to improve passenger comfort.
Detailed Breakdown for FY 2025-26:
- Total production planned: 2,710 General coaches, 1,910 Non-AC Sleeper coaches, 514 SLR coaches, 200 High Capacity Parcel Vans, and 110 Pantry cars.
- Continues the emphasis on Amrit Bharat series for General, Sleeper, and SLR coaches.
Source: Eastern Railway – Press Release | Featured Image Credit (representational): Eastern Railway