Indian Railways has decided to undertake a huge nationwide renovation plan for about 100 Shatabdi Express and Jan Shatabdi Express trains, which will provide comfort to millions of passengers, as per the Hindustan Times.
According to the plan, the coaches of these trains will undergo renovations, which will include upgrading to new and more comfortable seats, better upholstery, and better passenger amenities like lighting and upgraded toilets. It was revealed that the plan is an attempt by railway authorities to make old premium trains meet modern standards.
This effort is being undertaken to improve passenger comfort
Some of the key changes that will take place under this program include smoother running of trains, refurbishment of coach interiors, and better amenities for passengers. The Railway Board has ordered zonal railways to inspect rakes and develop an action plan to implement the program.
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It is anticipated that lakhs of passengers travelling on these routes will benefit from the decision by the railway authorities. According to officials, the renovation drive would complement the launch of new trains like the Vande Bharat Express train.
Upgrade to give priority to better seating, interior, and facilities
The order, which was issued on April 23rd, stated, “In order to enhance aesthetics, passenger comfort, and service quality in Shatabdi and Jan Shatabdi rakes, it becomes necessary for these to be kept in good condition and to improve those aspects of equipment affecting passengers.”
A circular was sent to the general managers of all railway zones by the Railway Board, instructing them to inspect rakes thoroughly and draw up an elaborate plan of action.
According to the railways, the process of upgrading around 100 such trains would begin immediately after finalising the plan. It would include improvement of toilets, door covers, lockings, basins, flush systems, passenger facilities, and drainage.
In addition, the Board has requested the zones to upgrade seat covers, along with other passenger facilities, including mobile chargers, snack tables, footrests, armrests, roller blinds, and magazine pockets.
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“The prevention of jerks in coaches, vestibules, gangways, and overhead panels will also be upgraded,” a source familiar with the matter informed.“The interiors of the coaches, panels, flooring in the coaches, vicinity around washrooms, passenger information system, and CCTV systems will also be upgraded,” the official mentioned.
“Along with these improvements, the external aesthetics of coaches, window glasses and destination panel boards shall be upgraded by IR,” stated the order.“This is all in tune with the policy of the railways wherein there is constant focus on updating these premier services and meeting growing expectations regarding hygiene and modern facilities,” another official pointed out.
“The zones concerned are directed to undertake a detailed audit of defects in Shatabdi & Jan Shatabdi rakes and prepare a short-term plan for their rectification and monitoring,” mentioned the order dated 16 April.
