The Kazipet rail manufacturing unit of Indian Railways is close to completion and is set to play a crucial role as a production center for intercity trains, enhancing short-distance connectivity nationwide. Initially, the facility plans to manufacture 200 intercity trains within the next five years, as per the Ministry of Railways.
Union Minister of Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, and Minister of State for Railways, Ravneet Singh Bittu, along with senior officials, have assessed the operational plans of the Kazipet Rail Manufacturing Unit. These trains, once produced, will be utilized for short-distance intercity travel in India, covering approximately 300 km with frequent stops to link nearby towns and cities.
The ministry aims to offer affordable and efficient travel options for passengers, including students, workers, and individuals traveling for healthcare and other daily requirements. The new intercity trains are intended to operate as shuttle services connecting adjacent towns, diverting a significant portion of short-distance passenger traffic from roads to railways.
Featuring modern amenities, the trains will include automatic door closing systems, enhanced ventilation, and a 20-coach setup. Each coach will have two toilets located at both ends. Additionally, the coaches will incorporate advanced jerk-free couplers and bogies, while the trains are designed to achieve speeds of up to 130 kmph.
Moreover, the trains will be equipped with regenerative braking systems to recycle energy generated during braking back into the grid, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions compared to road transport. The ministry anticipates that the introduction of this extensive fleet will significantly boost the country’s green and clean transport capacity, promoting the transition towards more sustainable mobility solutions.
