Introduction of Amrit Bharat Version-II
Indian Railways is set to launch the Amrit Bharat Version-II, which will feature modern amenities aimed at improving the travel experience for the general public. The manufacturing of the first train rake is expected to be completed in just 15 days, and the goal is to have a total of four trains ready by March 2025. The first rake is being produced at the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai, with plans to manufacture 25 trains by the end of March 2026. Additionally, another 25 trains are in progress at the Punjab Rail Coach Factory in Kapurthala, Punjab, ensuring that passengers have access to both sleeper and general coaches.
Enhanced Features and Safety Measures
The new Amrit Bharat coaches come with several upgraded features designed for passenger comfort and safety. They are equipped with modern toilets that utilize sheet molding compounds and include facilities for disabled passengers in sleeper coaches. To maintain hygiene, an automated system has been installed to control odors. Furthermore, an onboard monitoring system allows for real-time tracking of wheel and bearing conditions, as well as monitoring the status of water after usage. In case of emergencies, such as derailments or accidents, emergency lights have been installed outside each coach, and other conveniences like mobile charging sockets and USB points have been added for passenger use.
Investment in Amrit Bharat Stations
In addition to the new train features, the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme is making strides with 40 stations in Haryana receiving significant investments. For instance, the Ambala City station will see an expenditure of Rs 22 crore, while Rs 262 crore is allocated for upgrades in Faridabad. Other stations, including Rohtak, Sonipat, and Narela, will also benefit from financial investments ranging from Rs 25 crore to Rs 29 crore. This initiative reflects a commitment to enhancing infrastructure and services at railway stations, further enriching the traveling experience across the region.