Railways Unveils Upgraded Amrit Bharat 2.O Coaches: Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw Promises High-Quality Travel For All

Union Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw inspected the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) on Friday (10 January) to review the new Amrit Bharat Train coaches. 

Speaking to IANS, he emphasised that the Amrit Bharat Train is designed specifically to cater to middle- and lower-income groups, focusing on affordability without compromising quality.

"Version 2 Amrit Bharat has been designed based on the experience of the train launched by the Prime Minister last year, which has many new features. You must have seen the couplers, and the pantry car, the design of both of them has been completely changed. The design of the air window has also been completely changed. The entire focus has been placed on the poor families and the middle class," Vaishnaw said.

Highlighting the improvements in Version 2.0, the Minister stated that 12 major upgrades have been made, ensuring that even general coaches now offer premium features like better seats, fans, charging points, lumbar support, and newly designed facilities.

He added that the sense of 'sabka saath, sabka vikas' drives this initiative.

During his visit, Vaishnaw inspected Vande Bharat rakes, Amrit Bharat coaches, and the Vistadome dining car. He interacted with ICF staff, lauding their efforts in delivering enhanced passenger experiences.

The Amrit Bharat Train, with general and sleeper coaches, aims to maintain Vande Bharat-level amenities at a more affordable price. 

The Ministry of Railways confirmed that these trains offer cheaper non-AC services, equipped with LHB sleepers and general class coaches.

Vaishnaw also discussed advancements in Vistadome coaches, which now feature dining cars tailored for tourists to enjoy panoramic views during meals. Future plans include deploying these upgraded coaches in regions like Jammu and Kashmir.

Additionally, the Railway is fitting 10,000 locomotives with 'KAVACH' technology, installing 15,000 km of trackside fittings, and equipping locomotives with front-facing cameras for enhanced safety.