Kerala is poised to witness a significant advancement in its railway infrastructure with the impending launch of the Amrit Bharat 2.2 train service.
This upgraded version of the Amrit Bharat Express is being developed at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai and the Rail Coach Factory in Kapurthala, Punjab. The introduction of Amrit Bharat 2.2 aligns with India’s broader vision of enhancing sustainable, affordable, and inclusive transportation options across the nation. The Amrit Bharat 2.2 distinguishes itself by incorporating a greater number of air-conditioned coaches, a feature that was absent in its predecessors. This enhancement aims to provide comfortable long-distance travel options for passengers, particularly benefiting the middle-class demographic. Designed to cover distances of approximately 800 kilometers, the train maintains a top speed ranging between 110 to 130 kmph. The rollout plan includes the production of 100 Amrit Bharat coaches, encompassing the latest version, between 2025 and 2027. These coaches will feature twelve interior upgrades, focusing on passenger comfort and convenience.
The interiors of the Amrit Bharat 2.2 have been thoughtfully redesigned to enhance the travel experience. Improvements include comfortable seating arrangements, modern switches, improved sanitation facilities, convenient charging points, and mobile holders. The inclusion of a pantry car addresses the need for onboard catering services, catering to the requirements of long-distance travelers. Each rake will comprise at least three AC coaches, ensuring that passengers have access to climate-controlled environments throughout their journey. Kerala has been identified as a key priority in the deployment plans for the Amrit Bharat 2.2. The state’s strategic location and high passenger demand make it an ideal candidate for the introduction of this upgraded train service. The enhanced connectivity is expected to facilitate economic growth, promote tourism, and improve access to essential services for residents across the region.
In parallel, the Vande Bharat series continues to expand, with the upcoming Vande Bharat Sleeper trains set to revolutionize overnight travel. These trains, currently under production by Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML), are designed to offer world-class amenities, including integrated reading lights with USB charging provisions, public announcement and visual information systems, modular pantries, and special accommodations for differently-abled passengers. The First Class AC coaches will feature showers with hot water, enhancing passenger comfort on long journeys The Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are engineered for a maximum operational speed of 160 km/h, with the capability to reach up to 180 km/h during testing. Each train will accommodate a total of 823 passengers across various configurations: 611 berths in AC 3 Tier across 11 coaches, 188 berths in AC 2 Tier across 4 coaches, and 24 berths in a single First Class AC coach.
The introduction of both the Amrit Bharat 2.2 and the Vande Bharat Sleeper trains underscores the Indian Railways’ commitment to modernizing the country’s transportation infrastructure. These developments aim to provide passengers with enhanced comfort, safety, and efficiency, while also promoting sustainable and inclusive growth. The focus on incorporating eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient technologies, and gender-neutral designs reflects a holistic approach to building equitable cities and communities. As Kerala prepares to welcome the Amrit Bharat 2.2, the state stands at the forefront of India’s journey towards a more connected and sustainable future. The new train service is anticipated to not only improve travel experiences but also to serve as a catalyst for regional development, bridging gaps between remote areas and urban centers, and fostering greater social and economic integration.
Also Read : Udhampur Srinagar Rail Link Sets Benchmark for Safe High Speed Transit
