Indian Railways roll out the first AC Double Decker Train

It was tested about a month back and it has been finally implemented. India’s First AC Double Decker Train has been rolled out by Indian Railways.

According to Rail Coach Factory’s (RCF) General Manager Pradeep Kumar, The double decker rake comprises of Ten coaches, including Two power cars. The double-decker AC chair car train can accommodate 128 passengers which is more than 70 per cent of the usual trains (normally 78). The coaches have two floors connected with staircases and it has been provided with better suspension arrangements for comfort. Facilities in the Double Decker Train would be to the ones that are provided in Rajdhani and Shatabdi trains.

The GM of RCF was also quoted saying, “It is the latest design, which is made of stainless steel. Its coaches are fit to run up to the speed of 180 kilometer per hour. It is incorporated with all kinds of safety features. It is a design, which will have least impact on the passengers in case of an accident.The train will be introduced on stretches not more than 500 km long as there are no sleeper facilities yet, and will have a general speed of 160 kilometer per hour.”

The Double Decker AC train was rolled out in Kapurthala district of Jalandhar on 16th October, 2010 (Saturday). The first double decker train would start running on Howrah-Dhanbad section of eastern railways after clearance from the Commissioner, Railway Safety.

Its a very good initiative and meant for Low Cost travelling. I just hope some more such trains are introduced by Indian railways soon.