Source – https://www.financialexpress.com/business/railways-indian-railways-phases-out-23000-conventional-coaches-replaces-them-with-advanced-lhb-coaches-details-inside-3384567/
Publisher – Financial Express
In a transformative shift within the realm of railway travel, the conventional Integral Coach Factory (ICF) coaches are gradually making way for the advanced Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches. According to the statement issues by the Ministry of Railways, a total of 23,000 conventional coaches have been successfully replaced by their LHB counterparts since 2015.
The trains operating with conventional ICF coaches are getting replaced by LHB coaches in a phased manner. These modern coaches boast a multitude of salient features, such as an improved ride quality index, a Centre Buffer Coupler ensuring enhanced safety and anti-climbing features, Axle-mounted Disc brake system, and a sturdy design aimed at minimising damage and preventing coach capsising during accidents.
What is LHB Coach?
LHB coaches, standing for Linke Hofmann Busch coaches, represent a technological leap forward in railway travel, promising passengers an elevated journey marked by enhanced safety and comfort. These coaches boast a range of advanced features, including an Anti-climbing arrangement, Secondary Air Suspension with failure indication system, and a corrosion-resistant shell. Since the fiscal year 2018-19, Indian Railways’ production units have exclusively focused on manufacturing LHB coaches, reflecting a commitment to modernisation and passenger satisfaction.
Manufacturing of LHB coaches is centralised across three major railway factories: Chittaranjan Locomotive Works (CLW) in Chittaranjan, Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) in Varanasi, and Patiala Locomotive Works (PLW) in Patiala. Notably, Indian Railways has transitioned away from conventional coaches, with approximately 23,000 of such coaches produced since 2015.
Salient features of LHB coaches
Key attributes of LHB coaches encompass a superior ride quality index, the inclusion of a Centre Buffer Coupler for heightened safety, and an Axle-mounted Disc brake system. Designed with robustness in mind, these coaches aim to minimise damage and prevent capsising during accidents. Additionally, they are equipped with Bio-toilets, offering increased seating capacity, expansive panoramic windows, FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) panels in AC coaches, and Microprocessor-controlled AC units.
Vistadome coach
Furthermore, in a bid to elevate the passenger experience, Indian Railways has introduced the visually striking Vistadome Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches. These coaches are meticulously designed to offer panoramic vistas, featuring wider body side windows and transparent sections in the roof. Currently, 57 Vistadome coaches traverse various broad, meter, and running gauge sections of the Indian Railways network, enriching journeys and attracting tourists with unparalleled scenic views.
