MCF Raebareli unveils its first Vande Bharat trainset, sends it for trials

Lucknow: The Modern Coach Factory (MCF) in Raebareli rolled out its first Vande Bharat trainset on Saturday, marking its entry into the group of manufacturing units producing these semi high speed trains.

The 16-coach chair car rake has been dispatched to the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) team for testing and field trials before it enters passenger service. The RDSO team will hold trials of the MCF manufactured Vande Bharat trainset on the 63km-long track between Khajuraho Junction and Mahoba Junction of North Central Railway (NCR) zone.

The Vande Bharat programme began in 2018 with two trainsets and is now approaching the milestone of 100 trainsets.

The newly rolled out trainset is equipped with a Siemens propulsion system. Before being deployed, it will undergo oscillation trials to assess ride quality, safety standards and overall performance under dynamic conditions.

The train retains key features associated with the Vande Bharat platform such as speed, energy efficiency and passenger comfort. It includes sealed gangways, automatic plug doors to reduce noise, and seating designed for smoother travel. Safety systems include the indigenous Kavach automatic train protection system, fire detection with aerosol-based suppression, and measures to protect equipment during flooding.

Manufacturing improvements include the use of vacuum infusion technology for interior finishing. The train is also designed to be accessible, with ramps, designated spaces and facilities for passengers with disabilities.

“With this rollout, MCF Raebareli adds to the growing fleet of Vande Bharat trains, contributing to ongoing efforts to enhance rail travel standards in India,” added the official statement.