Vande Bharat Express redefines inter-city travel with faster, safer, energy-efficient trains in India

Credit: PIB

As India advances towards its goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, modern mobility is a central pillar of national development. The Vande Bharat Express represents a significant leap in passenger rail services, combining speed, safety, comfort, and energy efficiency across inter-city routes. Developed indigenously, these semi-high-speed trainsets mark a transition from conventional locomotive-hauled trains to self-propelled, integrated train systems optimised for modern operational requirements.

Vande Bharat trains respond to growing demand for faster travel and enhanced onboard comfort, particularly on medium-distance corridors. Earlier premium services, such as the Rajdhani Express and Shatabdi Express, upgraded India’s passenger rail, and Vande Bharat now forms the foundation for the next phase of rail modernisation.

The trains feature semi-permanent jerk-free couplers and improved suspension systems for a smoother ride. Regenerative braking enhances energy efficiency, while KAVACH, India’s indigenously developed Automatic Train Protection system, continuously monitors speed and signals to prevent collisions and overspeeding. Other safety features include centrally controlled automatic plug doors, fully sealed gangways, CCTV cameras, emergency alarms, and remote coach condition monitoring.

Passenger comfort is enhanced through ergonomically designed seating, bio-vacuum toilets, Divyangjan-friendly lavatories, GPS-based passenger information systems, air-conditioning with UV-C disinfection lamps, and wide multi-purpose compartments for luggage, prams, and bicycles. Manufactured at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) with around 90% localisation, the trains align with the Make in India initiative.

Vande Bharat trainsets combine modern technology, passenger-centric design, and sustainability, earning recognition such as the National Energy Conservation Award (NECA) in 2024. By delivering faster, safer, and more comfortable travel, the Vande Bharat Express supports India’s mobility ambitions, strengthens inter-city connectivity, and sets a benchmark for the future of premium passenger rail services.