Dhaka: Bangladesh Railway is set to receive the first rake of 19 LHB broad gauge passenger coaches from India's Rail Coach Factory (RCF), Kapurthala, the Indian government said. The delivery marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between the two nations in enhancing Bangladesh's railway infrastructure.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the first rake comprises 03 AC Sleeper Cars, 03 AC Chair Cars, 11 Non-AC Chair Cars, and 02 Power Cars. These coaches incorporate several unique design features and modifications, many of which have been developed for the first time in LHB-type coaches. The coaches are specially customised to meet the operational and passenger requirements of Bangladesh Railway, as stated by the Press Information Bureau of India.
The seating arrangement in the coaches includes specially designed reclining chairs with stainless steel armrests and footrests, offering multiple reclining positions for passenger comfort. The coaches are equipped with passenger-centric features such as fans in AC coaches, an integrated CCTV surveillance system, a passenger alarm system, partially openable windows, a Baby Care Room, and a Prayer Room.
Considering the specific operating conditions of Bangladesh, the roof structure of the coaches has been strengthened to withstand additional loading from passengers traveling on the roof during peak traffic periods. A major technological advancement in these coaches is the incorporation of crashworthy design provisions complying with European Standard EN 15227, which required a comprehensive redesign of the car body shell to enhance collision performance and passenger safety.
The electrical system of these coaches has been specially designed for 415 V operation, unlike the conventional 750 V system used in Indian Railways coaches. The association between RCF and Bangladesh Railway began with the supply of 120 LHB broad gauge passenger coaches during 2015-16. Building upon this successful partnership, Bangladesh Railway once again entrusted RCF, through RITES, with a prestigious order in 2024 for the manufacture and supply of 200 broad gauge passenger coaches in seven variants.