Ht Bureau
GUWAHATI, May 24: The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has converted the ICF rakes in 10 pair of long-distance trains operating through important routes to Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) rakes in 2023-24.
In its constant endeavour in making train journeys more safe and secured, NFR adopted technically advanced measures to prevent unforeseen incidents on trains. As an initiative, NFR came up with conversion of its ICF coaches to LHB coaches in trains to provide better travelling and comfortable journey experiences without compromising safety. These coaches consist of technical advancements like Fire and Smoke Detection System (FSDS), Fire Detection and Suppression System (FDSS) along with Aspiration type Smoke Detectors and Aerosol based Fire Detection System.
As of now a total of 60 trains with 95 rakes operating under NFR have been converted to modern LHB rakes. LHB rakes are equipped with modern hydraulic shock absorber and improved suspension system which ensures greater riding comfort for the passengers compared to conventional rakes. LHB coaches are manufactured with anti-collision technology that causes fewer fatalities during accident. Each coach also has an Advanced Pneumatic Disc Brake System for efficient braking at higher speeds.
At present, NFR has been operating 912 AC coaches and 822 sleeper class coaches along with 129 luggage vans and 67 pantry cars having LHB model. In addition, two pairs of new train services the Dibrugarh-Deoghar- Dibrugarh Weekly Express and the Siliguri Town-Jogbani-Siliguri Town Intercity Express came up with LHB model.
Improvement in rail safety and upgradation in passenger amenities is a continuous process and constant efforts are made to improve the same. Safety audits and inspections are undertaken at regular intervals on railway infrastructures with a view to identify areas to ascertain maintenance with implementation of safety procedure and systemic defects identifications are adopted to prevent accidents. Conversion of old ICF coaches into LHB coaches is one such safety drive that Indian Railways aims towards providing enhanced safety and utmost comfort to its commuters.
