In a significant move to improve passenger comfort and safety, the South East Central Railway (SECR) has announced the introduction of modern LHB coaches and the addition of extra sleeper coaches on several key trains.
The SECR is replacing traditional coaches with state-of-the-art LHB (Linke Hofmann Busch) coaches across all trains running through or originating from its network. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Mr. Dileep Singh highlighted the advantages of LHB coaches, noting their superior comfort, advanced facilities, and enhanced safety features.
“Designed to operate at speeds exceeding 160 km/h, LHB coaches are far more secure compared to conventional coaches, which typically have a maximum speed of 110-130 km/h,” Singh explained.
Moreover, these coaches offer more berths than the older ICF models, further enhancing passenger convenience.
In a bid to expand sleeper class facilities, the SECR’s Nagpur Division will permanently add an extra sleeper coach to the Shivnath Express, Intercity Express, and Jan Shatabdi Express trains. Starting April 14, the 12855 Bilaspur-Itwari Intercity Express and 18239/18240 Shivnath Express will feature an additional sleeper coach.
From April 15, the 12856 Itwari-Bilaspur Intercity Express will also receive this upgrade.
This enhancement will bring the total number of LHB coaches on these trains to 22, including:
01 Generator/Luggage Van
01 SLR (Seating-Luggage-Railway) Coach
04 General Coaches
07 Sleeper Coaches
05 AC Three-tier Coaches
01 AC Three-tier Economy Coach
02 AC Two-tier Coaches
01 First AC Coach
In addition, the 2070 Gondia-Raigarh Jan Shatabdi Express will feature an extra non-AC chair car from April 13, while the 12069 Raigarh-Gondia Jan Shatabdi Express will see the same addition starting April 14. This brings the total to 19 coaches, including:
01 Generator/Luggage Van
01 SLR Coach
14 Non-AC Chair Cars
03 AC Chair Cars
These changes are part of SECR’s ongoing efforts to enhance the travel experience, ensuring both comfort and safety for passengers across its network.