Kapurthala | Rail Coach Factory (RCF), Kapurthala, has achieved a significant milestone with the rollout of its first rake comprising 19 LHB broad-gauge passenger coaches for Bangladesh Railway. The rake was scheduled for rollout on August 12, 2026, according to the Ministry of Railways.
The first rake consists of three AC Sleeper Cars, three AC Chair Cars, 11 Non-AC Chair Cars and two Power Cars. The coaches have been specially customised to meet the operational requirements and passenger needs of Bangladesh Railway, incorporating several design features and modifications developed specifically for this project.
Passenger-Centric Design and Facilities
The coaches feature specially designed reclining chairs with stainless-steel armrests and footrests, offering multiple reclining positions for improved passenger comfort. Other passenger-oriented facilities include fans in AC coaches, an integrated CCTV surveillance system, passenger alarm systems and partially openable windows.
The rake also includes dedicated Baby Care Rooms and Prayer Rooms, reflecting the specific passenger requirements considered during the design process. The roof structure has been strengthened to withstand additional loading associated with passengers travelling on the roof during peak traffic periods, as outlined in the Ministry’s release.
Crashworthy Design Based on European Standards
A key technological feature of the coaches is the incorporation of crashworthy design provisions complying with European Standard EN 15227. According to the release, this required comprehensive redesign of the car body shell to improve collision performance and passenger safety.
The electrical system has also been specifically configured for 415-volt operation, compared with the conventional 750-volt system used in Indian Railways coaches.
Strengthening India-Bangladesh Railway Cooperation
RCF’s association with Bangladesh Railway dates back to 2015–16, when it successfully supplied 120 LHB broad-gauge passenger coaches.
Building on that earlier collaboration, Bangladesh Railway entrusted RCF, through RITES, with an order in 2024 for the manufacture and supply of 200 broad-gauge passenger coaches in seven variants. The current rake forms part of this broader order.
The project highlights RCF Kapurthala’s capabilities in adapting LHB coach technology to different operational environments and passenger requirements, while strengthening India’s railway manufacturing partnership with Bangladesh.
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