Overview
- Design work is underway at the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai under the Make in India programme to expand capacity from 823 to 1,224 berths, a gain of 401 or roughly 49%.
- The planned formation includes 17 Third AC coaches, five Second AC coaches, one First AC coach and one AC pantry car, with mini-pantries and linen storage areas distributed across coaches.
- A prototype rake is targeted by the end of 2026, with the train designed for up to 160 kmph and equipped with regenerative braking and crashworthy stainless‑steel car bodies.
- Passenger features include ergonomically designed berths, charging points, Wi‑Fi‑enabled information and infotainment, vacuum‑assisted toilets and improved luggage space, while safety systems include Kavach, CCTV and fire protections.
- Railway officials cite over‑100% occupancy on the new 16‑coach services as the driver for the upgrade, with indicative sleeper fares reported at Rs 2.4/3.1/3.8 per km for 3AC/2AC/1AC and a separate report suggesting ICF may build 50 rakes that is yet to be widely corroborated.