Happy news on Rly front, more Train 18 rakes likely to be brought out
S Vishnu Sharmaa, INN/Chennai, @Svs037
There is happy news on the railway front. Train 18 also known as Vande Bharat Express became an instant hit soon after it stepped out of its maker’s abode. It is heard more rakes of the popular train are going to be made. It is said that the target is to bring out 720 coaches by 2021-22.
Integral Coach Factory (ICF) brought out the semi-high speed train amidst much fanfare a few years ago. The journey for the popular train was not smooth. There were hurdles during its trail run and many were skeptical about its performance. But the train awed everyone, the technological marvel did get the praise from Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself.
It was considered an epitome of ‘Make In India.’ The train was made in record time of 18 months. The train is currently being operated in two routes, while one is Delhi-Varnasi, the other is Delhi-Katra. Railway Board is said to have approved for ICF to go ahead with the process immediately with specifications mentioned by Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO).
RDSO is said to have already given out a revised design which ensures that new Train 18 will have less weight and utilise less power. The new Train 18 which will be brought out by ICF will be a revised design that has got the approval from RDSO. There was some controvery with regards to Train 18 in the recent times.
However with the approval being given to ICF the controversy seems to have come to an end. The controversy was with regards to procedural flaws in making of the train. Making of the semi-high speed train did not move ahead. The reason for halting the production of the popular train was that it was heavier and also it utilized more power.
There was criticism from various quarters. Railway Board has proposed to procure rakes from abroad also. The new design according to which Train 18 will be made is said to be on par with world class standards. Sources from ICF said they are yet to receive information in this regard. Required measures will be taken once the details are obtained.
