Indian Railways Plans to Increase Speed of Vande Bharat Trains
There is good news for train travelers in India as the nation’s railway department plans to increase the speed of Vande Bharat trains. The announcement was made by the Minister of Railways, Ashwini Vaishnav, in the Lok Sabha on Thursday. He said that the plan is to increase the train’s speed from 110 km/h to 130 km/h, with safety barriers being installed at sensitive locations. Additionally, safety barriers will be installed across the entire track to achieve speeds greater than 130 km/h.
Vande Bharat Trains Known for Semi-High Speed Capacity
Vande Bharat trains are known for their semi-high-speed capacity, which can reach up to 160 km/h. Due to issues with signaling, track infrastructure, and fencing, the Indian Railways is unable to run these trains at their full speed. BJP MP Ghanshyam Singh Lodhi questioned the safety of the railway track for the Vande Bharat trains, to which Ashwini Vaishnav responded by emphasizing the priority of safety for Indian Railways.
Steps to Use Modern Track Structures
The Railway Minister stated that a comprehensive system has been designed for the inspection, maintenance, and repair of tracks. This includes the use of modern track structures, regular patrols of the tracks, ultrasonic testing to identify defects, and mechanized track maintenance among other measures. Vaishnav stated that it is necessary to install safety barriers at sensitive locations for speeds of 110 km/h to 130 km/h. Additionally, barriers will be needed across the entire track to achieve speeds greater than 130 km/h.
Close Watch on Antisocial Elements Activities
MP Lodhi drew attention to the activities of antisocial elements on the railway tracks used for Vande Bharat trains and expressed concern over such incidents. In response, Vaishnav mentioned that there were four incidents related to suspicious objects on the tracks from January to November 2023. Legal action has been taken against the responsible individuals. The Central Minister said there was full coordination with the Railway Protection Force (RPF), Government Railway Police (GRP), district police, and civil administration. Several steps are being taken to ensure the safe passage of trains.
- The Indian Railways plans to increase the speed of Vande Bharat trains from 110 km/h to 130 km/h.
- Safety barriers will be installed at sensitive locations and across the entire track to achieve higher speeds.
- A comprehensive system for track inspection, maintenance and repair is being implemented, involving modern track structures and ultrasonic testing.
- Concerns have been raised about the activities of antisocial elements on the tracks, and several steps are being taken to ensure safety and coordination with law enforcement.
