RCF Plans To Launch Vande Metro Prototype By April

RCF’s Project: Vande Metro Coach Prototype Set for April

The Rail Coach Factory (RCF) aims to roll out the first prototype of the Vande Metro coach by April.
A total of 16 such coaches are expected to be ready by the later part of the 2024-25 financial year.
The Vande Metro is designed on the concept of India’s first indigenous semi-high-speed train, Vande Bharat, catering to intercity passengers covering distances of up to 250 km.
Each Vande Metro train will consist of 16 air-conditioned coaches and can run at a maximum speed of 130 km per hour.

Vande Metro coaches will enhance passenger experience and accessibility, with each coach capable of carrying 280 passengers (100 seating capacity and 180 standing capacity).
The 3×3 bench-type seating arrangement maximizes passenger capacity for a comfortable medium-distance commute.
Coaches will be equipped with a passenger talkback system for communication with the train driver in case of emergencies.
Each coach will feature 14 sensors for fire and smoke detection.
Wheelchair-accessible lavatories will be available in coaches.
The Kavach system will be installed to prevent collisions.
Wide gangways between coaches will provide a smooth walk-through in the train.
Windows and doors are designed for safety and convenience, with wider openable hopper-type windows for emergency situations and automatic plug doors at the entrance for touch-free operation.

RCF rolled out 24 special Rajdhani sleeper coaches in December, equipped with hot water facilities in lavatories.
Another rake of 24 coaches will be rolled out in March, with two more rakes ready in the next financial year.
Trials for Vistadome coaches for the heritage Kalka-Shimla route have been successfully completed.
RCF plans to manufacture 30 more Vistadome coaches in the next financial year after safety clearance.
A double-decker cargo liner coach, capable of carrying 46 passengers and six tonnes of load, is currently on trial on the Ambala-Sahnewal section.

RCF, a coach manufacturing unit of Indian Railways, has built over 43,000 coaches since its inception in 1988.
With a commitment to innovation and passenger-centric design, RCF is poised to shape the future of rail travel in India.