The first trial run of the Vande Metro rake has successfully commenced, covering the route between Villivakkam and Walajah Road. This marks a significant milestone in the development of urban rail transportation, showcasing the efficiency and potential of the Vande Metro in enhancing connectivity and reducing travel time for commuters.
More Details:
The Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS), Shri Janak Kumar Garg has conducted a speed trial of Vande Metro rake on 03.08.2024 between Villivakkam and Walajah Road along with senior officers of ICF, RDSO, and Southern Railway. This milestone marks the beginning of a transformative journey for urban commuters nationwide.
Background:
- Shri Janak Kumar Garg, Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety visited ICF on 02.08.2024 to inspect the first rake of Vande Metro train.
- The variant manufactured in ICF having 12 coaches is a fully air-conditioned train which can run up to 110 kmph designed for inter-city travel of 150-200 km.
- This is set to make short distance intercity travel highly comfortable for passengers with improved safety aspects.
- The CCRS held a meeting with Shri U. Subba Rao, General Manager/ICF and officers of ICF on the technical features and improved passenger amenities provided in the Vande Metro train.
- He also inspected the Vande Metro rake before trail run at the Commissioning shed in ICF along with RDSO and ICF Officers.
Key Features of Vande Metro:
- The Vande Metro train is a shorter-distance version of the Vande Bharat Express.
- Compared with the conventional ferritic stainless steel grade, the thickness of the external panels of train sets has been reduced from 3 mm to 2 mm, resulting in lighter, more energy-efficient, and therefore, more cost-effective trains.
- The stainless steel 201LN grade is also extremely corrosion resistant, has higher strength and superior durability, and exhibits better crash-resistant properties, thereby providing the best-in-class safety to passengers.
- The Vande Metro aims to cater to urban commuters travelling distances up to 250 km.
- It is expected to connect more than 120 cities nationwide.
- The preliminary routes include Chennai-Tirupati, Bhubaneswar-Balasore, Agra-Mathura, Delhi-Rewari, and Lucknow-Kanpur.
Conclusion:
The successful trial run of the Vande Metro rake heralds a new era in urban rail transportation, set to transform daily commutes with its advanced design and superior safety features. As it expands to connect over 120 cities, the Vande Metro will significantly enhance connectivity and promote economic growth across India.
Source: ICF | Images Credit: ICF
