New Delhi: Indian Railways continues to enhance its transport capabilities with the introduction of 136 Vande Bharat trains currently operational on the Broad Gauge electrified network. These trains are designed for short and medium-distance journeys, providing a world-class travel experience. As of October 2024, the occupancy rate for Vande Bharat Express trains has surpassed 100%, demonstrating their popularity among passengers.
Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, informed the Lok Sabha that Indian Railways is committed to improving the quality of travel across the nation. He highlighted that the production of 200 Vande Bharat Sleeper Rakes has been awarded to technology partners, with the first prototype undergoing field trials. The successful completion of these trials will pave the way for their rollout.
Additionally, Indian Railways has been producing only LHB (Linke Hofmann Busch) coaches since April 2018. The production of LHB coaches has surged significantly, with the number manufactured during 2014-2024 exceeding 16 times (36,933 units) compared to the previous decade (2,337 units from 2004-2014). These technologically advanced coaches feature anti-climbing arrangements, air suspension with failure indication systems, and a less corrosive shell.
In line with the “Sugamya Bharat Mission” (Accessible India Campaign), Indian Railways has been making substantial progress in ensuring accessibility for Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjans) and passengers with reduced mobility. Under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, comprehensive facilities have been introduced across stations, including ramps, accessible parking, Braille and tactile signages, low-height counters, and lifts/escalators. By November 2024, 1,512 escalators and 1,607 lifts were installed at 399 and 609 stations respectively—a remarkable increase from the previous decade. Additionally, Vande Bharat trains offer enhanced accessibility features such as automatic doors, earmarked spaces, and Braille signage for Divyangjan passengers.