Government to expand train coaches, commited to low-income families, middle class through

In a response to a question in Parliament regarding the augmentation of general class coaches in an express train service, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Wednesday reiterated the government’s broader commitment to the welfare of middle-class and low-income families.

The minister stated that a reply had already been given to the specific query raised by the Honourable Member regarding the Nilambur–Kottayam Express. 

Vaishnaw, however, took the opportunity to emphasise that the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, remains committed to improving travel facilities for economically weaker sections of society.

He noted that over the past few years, a series of initiatives have been taken with the primary aim of supporting low-income families. 

One such initiative is the substantial increase in general and non-AC coaches.

“Today, out of the total 82,000 railway coaches in service, about 70 percent are general and non-AC coaches. Of the 69 lakh total seats available, nearly 78 per cent fall under the non-AC and general category,” the minister explained.

He further announced that the government has launched a program to manufacture 17,000 additional general and non-AC coaches.

Railway minister highlights recently launched Amrit Bharat Express features

The minister also introduced the Amrit Bharat Express, a new low-cost, long-distance train service designed specifically for low-income families. 

Despite its budget-friendly nature, the train is equipped with world-class features. The train includes 11 general class coaches and 8 sleeper class coaches, and is designed to meet modern standards in both comfort and safety.

Key features of the Amrit Bharat Express include semi-automatic, jerk-free couplers, crashworthy elements, an EP-assisted braking system, fire suppression technology, and modern toilets with improved design. Coaches are equipped with CCTV cameras, ergonomically designed ladders, LED lighting, mobile charging units (A and C type), emergency talkback systems, pantry facilities, and fully sealed gangways for passenger safety and convenience.

The minister reaffirmed that these measures reflect the government’s “clear commitment to improving railway infrastructure and travel experience for the middle class and low-income groups.”

He also acknowledged a separate request raised in the House concerning the extension of the Rajdhani Express to Trivandrum via Kochuveli, assuring that the matter would be examined for feasibility and taken up for further discussion.