The Hon’ble Union Minister for Railways, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, marked a historic moment as he inaugurated the car body structure of India’s pioneering Vande Bharat Sleeper train set, proudly manufactured by BEML Ltd. at its Bangalore-based rail unit. The ceremony was graced by the presence of senior officials from the Ministry of Railways, ICF, and the Chairman and Managing Director of BEML Ltd, Shri Shantanu Roy.
More Details:
The car body structure is crafted with high-grade Austenitic stainless steel, featuring crashworthy elements integrated into the crash buffers and couplers. Complying with stringent safety standards, all materials and aggregates in the train set adhere to the Fire standard requirements as per EN45545 HL3 grade.
Aesthetic Design:
- Engineered with meticulous attention to detail, the Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains designed by BEML prioritise both aesthetic appeal and functionality in their interiors, sleeper berths, and exteriors.
- From the front nose cone to interior panels, seats and berths, interior lights, couplers, gangways, and beyond, every element is meticulously designed to meet the exacting standards of the sleeper train set.
- BEML has spearheaded the development of critical systems including the electrical, propulsion, bogie, exterior plug doors, brake systems, HVAC, and more, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance throughout the train set.
- The entire manufacturing and assembly process is undertaken at BEML, underscoring a commitment to quality and precision.
- These Vande Bharat Sleeper trains set a new benchmark in passenger comfort and convenience, boasting world-class facilities and best-in-class interiors.
- It marks a significant milestone as India embarks on the journey of introducing sleeper variants within the acclaimed Vande Bharat platform.
Expert Insights:
Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw said, “It’s a historic moment for Indian Railways and for the country to launch the car body structure of the much-awaited Vande Bharat Sleeper version that will provide easy mobility to commuters and offer various comforts in the near future with global standards.”
Shri Shantanu Roy, CMD of BEML Ltd. said “We are delighted to be a part of creating this milestone that will facilitate comfort and world-class facilities while minimising travel time. Our production is operating at full capacity, and the entire manufacturing and assembly process is undertaken at BEML, emphasising our commitment to quality and precision by a specialised team of engineers and staff.”
ICF Integration:
Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai, placed an order with BEML Limited in May 2023 for the design, manufacture, and commissioning of 10 Rakes of 16 cars Vande Bharat Sleeper version trainsets. These trains will undergo necessary modifications to seamlessly transition from chair car variants to sleeper versions, ensuring compliance with crashworthiness and fire safety requirements.
The success of this project hinges on the meticulous design of aesthetically appealing interiors and the selection of competent GFRP panels, demonstrating BEML’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation in rail transportation.
Technical Features of Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Sets:
Car formation:
- Total cars per Train Set: 16
- Car formation: DTC + MC + TC + MC2 + MC + TC + MC + NDTC + NDTC2 + MC + TC + MC + MC2 + TC + MC2 + DTC2
Performance of Train:
Maximum operational speed during service | 160 kmph |
Maximum operational speed during testing | 180 kmph |
Minimum deceleration during full service braking following jerk limit | 0.8 m/s2 |
Maximum deceleration at any speed | 1 m/s2 |
Gauge | Broad Gauge 1676 mm |
Passenger Capacity:
Type of Berth | No. of Coaches Per Train | Number of Berths |
AC 3 Tier Berths | 11 | 611 |
AC 2 Tier Berths | 4 | 188 |
First Class AC Berths | 1 | 24 |
Total | 16 | 823 |
Salient Features:
- Austenitic Stainless steel car body
- Crash worthy features in car body for Passenger safety
- Best-in-class interiors with GFRP panels
- Aerodynamic exterior looks
- Modular pantry
- Fire safety as per EN 45545, Hazard Level: 03
- Special berths and toilets for differently abled
- Automatic exterior passenger doors
- Sensor based inter communication doors
- Remotely operated Fire barrier doors at end wall
- Ergonomically designed odour free toilet system
- Toilet for driving crew
- Shower with hot water in 1st AC car
- Integrated Reading light with USB Charging provision
- Public announcement and visual information system
- Modern passenger amenities
- Spacious luggage room
Conclusion:
The unveiling of India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Set represents a significant leap in the nation’s railway innovation, combining safety, comfort, and efficiency. This milestone underscores India’s commitment to advancing its rail infrastructure to meet global standards, promising a superior travel experience for passengers across the country.
Source: BEML – Press Release | Images Credit: BEML
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