ICF to Manufacture Two Amrit Bharat Express 3.0 Rakes by FY26 End
The Ministry of Railways is gearing up to introduce the next generation of affordable rail travel with the Amrit Bharat Express 3.0 trainsets. According to recent announcements, the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai plans to manufacture two complete rakes of these upgraded trains by the conclusion of the financial year 2025–26.
Production Timeline and Announcement
During the 77th Republic Day celebrations held at the ICF stadium in Chennai, General Manager U Subba Rao addressed the gathering and confirmed the production plans. "During the current financial year, ICF has planned to manufacture two rakes of Amrit Bharat 3.0," stated Rao. This strategic move aligns with the national transporter's broader initiative to enhance rail connectivity and passenger experience across India.
The Amrit Bharat Express series, first launched in 2023, was designed to offer a travel experience comparable to the premium Vande Bharat Express but at a more accessible price point. Currently, the railway network operates Amrit Bharat 1.0 and Amrit Bharat 2.0 trains, which have been serving passengers from lower and lower-middle income categories with reliable and cost-effective services.
Key Upgrades in Amrit Bharat 3.0
The Amrit Bharat 3.0 trainsets will introduce significant improvements over their predecessors, primarily in design and accommodation options. Unlike the existing versions that offer only General and Sleeper Class accommodations, the new iteration will feature a mix of air-conditioned (AC) and non-air-conditioned (non-AC) coaches. This development aims to strike a balance between comfort and affordability, catering to a wider range of passenger needs.
The design of Amrit Bharat 3.0 is being refined based on operational feedback from the earlier 1.0 and 2.0 models. This iterative approach ensures that the newer trainsets are optimized for performance, passenger satisfaction, and cost-efficiency. The railways have provisioned for the production of up to 100 Amrit Bharat trains in total, indicating a long-term commitment to expanding this affordable travel option.
Impact on Indian Railways and Passengers
The introduction of Amrit Bharat 3.0 is part of a larger effort by Indian Railways to modernize its fleet and improve connectivity. By offering a blend of AC and non-AC coaches, these trainsets are expected to:
- Enhance travel comfort for budget-conscious passengers.
- Provide a viable alternative to more expensive premium services.
- Support the government's vision of inclusive and sustainable transportation.
With the manufacturing timeline set for completion by FY2025–26, passengers can look forward to experiencing these upgraded trains in the near future. The Amrit Bharat Express continues to play a crucial role in making high-quality rail travel accessible to all segments of society, reinforcing Indian Railways' commitment to innovation and public service.
