India` first engine-less train |
A 16-coach prototype of Train 18, Indian Railways` first engine-less train, has made its inaugural trial run. Capable of running at a speed of up to 160 kmph, Train 18 is being referred to as a successor to the 30-year-old Shatabdi Express. The fully air-conditioned semi-high speed train, which will cut travel time by 15 per cent as compared to the Shatabdi, has been manufactured under `Make in India` initiative by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai at the cost of Rs 100 crore and completed in a record 18 months. Train 18 will have modern air-conditioned coaches interconnected with fully sealed gangways blocking noise and dust. The train is designed in such a way that passengers can have a look at the driver`s cabin. The train will have centrally operated automatic plug doors with sliding steps that close the gap between coaches and station platform. Besides, it will also have touch-free automatic doors inside the passenger compartment. The coaches on either ends will come with disabled-friendly passenger bays and disabled-friendly toilets. It will also feature onboard uninterrupted Wifi and infotainment system. Each compartment will have GPS-enabled passenger information system, showing train speed, location, time to reach destination etc.
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