Rail Coach Factory (RCF), Kapurthala, is set to roll out the first rake of 19 LHB broad gauge passenger coaches for Bangladesh Railway on August 12, marking another milestone in India’s railway manufacturing and export capabilities.
The first rake will comprise 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 modifications and features introduced for the first time in LHB-type coaches.
The coaches feature specially designed reclining chairs fitted with stainless steel armrests and footrests. The seats offer multiple reclining positions aimed at improving passenger comfort during journeys.
Passenger-centric facilities include fans in AC coaches, integrated CCTV surveillance, passenger alarm systems, partially openable windows, a Baby Care Room and a Prayer Room.
The coaches have also been designed keeping in mind the specific operating conditions in Bangladesh. Their roof structures have been strengthened to withstand additional loading caused by passengers travelling on the roof during periods of peak traffic.
A major technological feature of the coaches is their crashworthy design, which complies with European Standard EN 15227. Incorporating the standard required a comprehensive redesign of the car body shell to improve collision performance and enhance passenger safety.
The electrical systems have also been specially configured for 415-volt operation, compared with the conventional 750-volt system used in coaches of Indian Railways.
The latest order builds on the long-standing association between RCF and Bangladesh Railway. The partnership began with the successful supply of 120 LHB broad gauge passenger coaches during 2015-16.
Building on that cooperation, Bangladesh Railway again entrusted RCF, through RITES, with an order in 2024 for the manufacture and supply of 200 broad gauge passenger coaches in seven variants.
The rollout of the first rake underscores the growing role of Indian railway manufacturing units in supplying customised rolling stock to overseas markets and strengthens railway cooperation between India and Bangladesh.
