TDS Desk:

The Rail Coach Factory (RCF) at Kapurthala in the Indian state of Punjab on Wednesday unveiled the first consignment of 19 modern Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) broad-gauge passenger coaches for Bangladesh Railway.

The launch of the new rake at the RCF plant in Punjab marks another milestone in railway cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.

The first rake comprises three AC sleeper cars, three AC chair cars, 11 non-AC chair cars and two power cars. RCF has incorporated several technological innovations and modern amenities into the coaches for the first time, tailoring them to Bangladesh’s passenger needs and local environment.

The coaches feature modern reclining chairs with stainless steel handles and footrests to improve passenger comfort. They also come equipped with CCTV cameras, emergency alarm systems, additional fans in AC coaches, improved windows, a dedicated prayer room and a child-care facility.

Engineers made significant technical modifications to the design, including strengthening the roof structure to withstand heavy passenger loads during festivals and peak travel periods.

The manufacturers also built the coaches to European safety standards and incorporated crash-worthy technology to minimise casualties and damage during accidents. They adapted the electrical system from the Indian Railways’ standard 750 volts to 415 volts to match Bangladesh’s power infrastructure.

RCF previously supplied 120 coaches to Bangladesh Railway in 2015-16. Building on that agreement, Bangladesh Railway awarded a contract in 2024 to manufacture 200 new coaches through Indian agency RITES.

Wednesday’s delivery of 19 coaches marks the first shipment under the latest contract.