Bengalurus BEML Wins Rs 1,888 Crore Order To Supply 600 LHB Coaches
For the nation’s public transport infrastructure, an engineering and manufacturing corporation has been awarded a substantial contract worth ₹1,888 crore for the production and supply of 600 modern Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches to the Indian Railways. This order, placed by the Integral Coach Factory, marks a pivotal moment, as the company is returning to this critical role after a hiatus of five years. The initiative is part of a broader push to replace older coaches with more advanced and reliable rolling stock, a move that is crucial for enhancing the safety and efficiency of the country’s extensive rail network.
The new coaches are a testament to the railway authority’s commitment to sustainable and technologically advanced public transportation. A key feature of these modern coaches is the incorporation of bio-toilets with pressurised flushing systems, which not only improve hygiene standards but also represent a significant stride towards water conservation and sanitation. This focus on environmentally friendly solutions is central to the national agenda of creating zero net carbon and eco-friendly public infrastructure. Beyond sanitation, the coaches are equipped with enhanced aesthetics and durability, alongside advanced decoupling rubber technology designed to significantly reduce noise and vibration, contributing to a more comfortable and quieter journey for passengers and a less disruptive environmental impact.
This strategic contract win is also a positive indicator of the company’s financial trajectory. In a recent quarterly report, the corporation disclosed a consolidated net loss of ₹64.11 crore, a notable improvement from the ₹70.47 crore loss recorded in the comparable period of the previous year. Furthermore, total income for the quarter saw a marginal increase to ₹642.56 crore. The influx of this major order is expected to provide a considerable boost to the company’s financial performance and operational stability, underscoring the economic viability of investing in sustainable, large-scale infrastructure projects. The fifteen-month timeline for the completion of the project highlights the urgency and dedication behind the country’s rail modernisation efforts.
From a societal perspective, this upgrade is a powerful move towards building more equitable and secure cities. The new coaches come with a suite of advanced safety features, including CCTV surveillance systems for enhanced passenger security, emergency alarm switches for immediate intervention, and a robust battery backup system that can power lights and fans for up to ten hours during a power failure. An independent emergency lighting system will also activate automatically in the event of an accident, ensuring passenger safety in the most critical moments. These features are designed to create a safer and more inclusive travel environment for all citizens, addressing key concerns and fostering a sense of security and reliability in public transport.
