Train 18 is India’s first engine-less semi-high speed train, which was launched in 2019 as Vande Bharat Express. It is capable of running at a speed of up to 160 kmph, and has several features that make it a world-class train. Some of these features are:
- Modern air-conditioned coaches with touch-free automatic doors
- GPS-enabled passenger information system
- Onboard uninterrupted Wifi and infotainment system
- Disabled-friendly toilets with bio-vacuum flushing
- Executive chair car seats that can be rotated 180 degrees
- Mini pantry in each coach with state-of-the-art equipment
Train 18 was manufactured under the ‘Make in India’ initiative by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai at a cost of Rs 100 crore. It was completed in a record 18 months. The train is designed to replace the 30-year-old Shatabdi Express, which is the third fastest train in the country. The train will reduce travel time by 15% as compared to the Shatabdi.
The first deployment of Train 18 was on the Delhi-Varanasi route, where it covered a distance of 752 km in 8 hours. It had only two stops along the way: Kanpur and Prayagraj. The train has two categories of coaches: Executive Class and Chair Car. The fares vary depending on the direction of travel and include the cost of meals.
Train 18 is a remarkable achievement for Indian Railways and a testament to its innovation and transformation. It is expected that more such trains will be introduced on other routes in the future, enhancing the comfort and convenience of passengers.
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