Chennai: The Chennai–Tirupati Sapthagiri Express, one of Southern Railway’s most popular daily services, is set for a major upgrade after nearly a decade. From September 20, the train will be equipped with modern Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches, replacing its ageing ICF rake.
The move is being hailed as a significant step towards enhancing passenger safety, travel comfort and efficiency on a route that has consistently recorded high demand.According to railway officials, the new rake composition will include ten second-class chair cars, one AC coach, four general coaches and one specially designed disabled-friendly luggage van. The redesign has been carefully planned to meet the diverse passenger requirements on the Chennai–Tirupati stretch, which witnesses a large number of daily commuters, devotees, and long-distance travellers.
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The Sapthagiri Express has been a lifeline for travellers since its introduction in 1976, covering the 145-km distance between Chennai and Tirupati in just over three hours. For decades, it has remained among the most patronised trains of Southern Railway, with four services operating daily. Given the steady demand, experts argue that the decision to modernise the rake was long overdue.
What makes this development particularly noteworthy is the safety dimension.
LHB coaches, widely regarded as superior to ICF coaches, are designed to withstand higher speeds, reduce derailment risks, and enhance passenger security during accidents. They also offer better ride comfort with advanced suspension and reduced noise levels, creating a smoother journey experience. Railway officials highlight that this upgrade is part of a broader strategy to phase out ICF coaches across the country in favour of the more eco-friendly and energy-efficient LHB stock.
The Sapthagiri Express has a unique legacy in Indian Railways history. In the 1990s, it became one of the first trains in South India to run with a push-pull configuration with an engine at the rear and a driving cabin at the front well before premier trains like Rajdhani or Vande Bharat were equipped with similar features. This innovation helped cut travel time by half an hour and eliminated the need for time-consuming locomotive reversals. Though this configuration was withdrawn in 2016, rail enthusiasts continue to remember it as a symbol of the route’s importance.
The introduction of the LHB rake is being seen as both a revival and a modernisation. Officials indicate that more such upgrades are on the way, in keeping with Indian Railways’ commitment to sustainability and passenger safety. For daily commuters and Tirupati-bound pilgrims alike, the move is expected to make a tangible difference in both comfort and reliability.With the rollout of these upgraded coaches, Southern Railway not only addresses passenger expectations but also takes a meaningful step towards creating safer, sustainable, and more efficient rail connectivity across the region.
