Indian Railways has introduced its first AC Amrit Bharat Express on the New Delhi-Patna route. The upgraded train made its debut as a special service for Chhath Puja.
The train departed from New Delhi Railway Station for Patna Junction on November 11. It offers both air-conditioned and non-AC accommodation amid increased festive travel demand.
Manufactured by Chennai-based Integral Coach Factory (ICF), the Amrit Bharat 3.0 expands accommodation options. Earlier versions offered only sleeper and general-class coaches.
However, the latest version introduces First AC, Second AC and Third AC accommodation. It retains sleeper and general-class options for passengers seeking affordable travel.
Amrit Bharat 3.0 features 22 coaches
The new train has a total of 22 coaches. Its composition includes six Third AC and two Second AC coaches.
It also has one First AC coach and six sleeper-class coaches. Additionally, four general-class coaches provide non-AC accommodation.
The remaining coaches comprise a pantry car, a power car and a Divyangjan-cum-guard brake van.
The introduction of AC accommodation marks a major change to the Amrit Bharat service. The service was initially designed to improve long-distance travel for ordinary and middle-income passengers.
Upgraded suspension, toilets and push-pull technology
The Amrit Bharat 3.0 features improved seating arrangements and upgraded suspension systems. It also includes modern toilets and mobile charging points.
Furthermore, the train uses push-pull technology, with locomotives positioned at both ends. This arrangement helps improve acceleration and deceleration.
The technology is intended to enhance operational efficiency and provide a smoother ride. It also supports the train’s focus on long-distance passenger travel.
The combination of AC, sleeper and general-class coaches gives passengers more accommodation choices. Consequently, the upgraded service caters to different travel preferences and budgets.
Railways strengthens arrangements for Chhath rush
The launch comes amid increased passenger movement ahead of Chhath Puja. Large numbers of people travel from cities such as Delhi and Mumbai to Bihar and neighbouring states.
Central Railway Chief Public Relations Officer Swapnil Nila said special trains and passenger arrangements had helped ease congestion. He said crowds had declined at several major stations in Maharashtra.
These included Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus, Nagpur and Pune. Nila said designated holding areas had also helped passengers move more smoothly.
Indian Railways has introduced additional arrangements for Diwali and Chhath Puja. These measures aim to accommodate festive passenger traffic and improve travel management.
