Rail Coach Factory (RCF), Kapurthala, is set to achieve another milestone with the rollout of its first rake of 19 LHB broad gauge passenger coaches for Bangladesh Railway on August 12.
The first rake comprises three AC Sleeper Cars, three AC Chair Cars, 11 Non-AC Chair Cars and two Power Cars. The coaches have been customised to meet the operational and passenger requirements of Bangladesh Railway.
Coaches designed for passenger comfort
The coaches feature specially designed reclining chairs with stainless steel armrests and footrests, offering multiple reclining positions. AC coaches are equipped with fans, while other passenger-centric features include integrated CCTV surveillance, passenger alarm systems and partially openable windows.
The rake also includes a baby care room and a prayer room. The roof structure has been strengthened to withstand additional loading arising from passengers travelling on the roof during peak traffic periods.
Crashworthy design enhances safety
A key technological feature is the incorporation of crashworthy provisions complying with European Standard EN 15227. This required comprehensive redesign of the car body shell to improve collision performance and passenger safety.
The electrical system has also been specially designed for 415 V operation, compared with the conventional 750 V system used in Indian Railways coaches.
RCF expands Bangladesh partnership
RCF’s association with Bangladesh Railway began with the supply of 120 LHB broad gauge passenger coaches during 2015-16.
Building on the partnership, Bangladesh Railway entrusted RCF, through RITES, with an order in 2024 for manufacturing and supplying 200 broad gauge passenger coaches in seven variants.