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.
If you want to know more about Train 18, you can check out these links:
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