CHENNAI: Taking a giant leap in coach production, the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) has manufactured the first rake of paintless (exterior) Antyodaya coaches.The rake comprising 24 coaches, which was handed over to the Southern Railway recently, is operated as a special train between Tambaram and Tirunelveli.The new type of paintless LHB stainless steel general class coaches will be operated as part of an unreserved train for superfast service on dense routes at the 120-kmph speed.
The coaches have corrugate sidewall with duplex stainless steel of 2-mm thickness. It also has paintless finish and fleet graphic and hydrophobic anti-graphic stickers, said ICF officials.Explaining the features of the coaches, official sources said roof-tops are coated with solar heat-resistant paint. “The rake has been manufactured to sport an aesthetic look with better travel comfort. Passengers can walk from one end to the other end through vestibule. The toilets have bio-retention tanks, good flush and exhaust system,” said the officials.
In addition to this, the coaches are provided with cushioned seat and luggage rack, two chargers per bay, two water dispensers per coach, additional dustbins, Braille signage and fire extinguishers. Besides, the coaches are also fiftted with LED lights and toilet occupation indication boards.“We are also planning to manufacture one more rake (24 coaches) of paintless Antyodaya coaches for the Southern Railway,” added the officials.The rake, which is currently used for operating special trains, is likely to be introduced as a regular Antyodaya Express between Tambaram and Tirunelveli, said railway sources.