India’s railway sector marked a significant milestone as the country unveiled its first Vande Metro train at the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai on April 30.
The Vande Metro, a shorter-distance version of the esteemed Vande Bharat Express, is tailored to cater to urban commuters travelling distances of up to 250 km.
Designed to elevate the commuter experience, the Vande Metro trains are set to operate along routes spanning between 100 km and 250 km. Another variant, the Vande Bharat sleeper train, is currently in development for routes exceeding 1,000 km.
Vande tests
The trial phase for Vande Metro trains is scheduled to begin in July, followed by subsequent testing of the sleeper variant. These developments signify a significant stride towards modernising India’s rail infrastructure and enhancing commuter convenience.
Read More: IndiGo to Dole Out Special Bonus for Employees Ahead of Q4 Results
In line with the ambitious plans outlined by the Railway Ministry, the Vande Metro trains aim to connect 124 cities across the country. Initial routes identified include Chennai-Tirupati, Bhubaneswar-Balasore, Agra-Mathura, Delhi-Rewari, and Lucknow-Kanpur. Discussions are also underway to extend connectivity across Tamil Nadu, potentially linking Chennai to Arakkonam, pending finalisation.
Key features
According to news agency PTI, these trains will be operating on existing railway tracks and are designed to accommodate passengers commuting between major urban centres and adjacent satellite towns. The emphasis is on facilitating unreserved category travellers, ensuring inclusivity in railway transportation.
The rapid acceleration capabilities and frequent stops of Vande Metro trains, ensure efficient transportation. Each train will feature 12 coaches equipped with spacious automatic doors and side seats, optimising standing room for passengers.
Read More: RBI lifts restrictions on Bajaj Finance’s eCOM, Insta EMI Card with immediate effect
In anticipation of heightened demand on busy routes, officials confirm the flexibility of expanding these trains to accommodate up to 16 coaches, further enhancing capacity.
