Vande Bharat Freight Train on a 130 kmph trial run.
NEW DELHI: India’s first Vande Bharat-based freight train has successfully undergone a high-speed trial at 130 kmph on the Kota–Rohal Khurd section of the West Central Railway.
The technical trial marks an important step in developing faster and more efficient rail-based parcel and logistics services.
Teams from the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and the Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai, were present during the testing.
Details of the Trial
The trial was conducted under loaded conditions to evaluate the performance of the 16-coach Freight Electric Multiple Unit (EMU). Officials tested several critical parameters, including:
• Electrical and propulsion systems
• Regenerative energy recovery during braking
• Thermal capacity at high speeds
• Traction and braking performance
• Jerk levels while accelerating and decelerating under load
According to Saurabh Jain, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of Kota Division, the regenerative energy test assessed how efficiently the train recovers electricity while braking, while the thermal capacity test examined the performance of electrical systems at elevated speeds. Traction, braking and jerk tests focused on pulling power, stopping capability and ride smoothness when the train was carrying cargo.
Design and Features of the Freight EMU
Developed by the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai, the rake is based on the Vande Bharat trainset platform rather than the conventional locomotive-and-wagon configuration. It has been specifically designed for high-speed transportation of parcels and other goods.
Key features include advanced propulsion and braking systems, a special roller floor system to facilitate parcel loading, automatic wide sliding doors, temperature-controlled (reefer) facilities, CCTV surveillance and fire detection systems.
The objective of the trials is to assess the functionality, reliability and performance of the various systems at high speeds. Once the testing is successfully completed, the rake is expected to contribute to faster, safer and more punctual parcel and logistics transportation on the Indian Railways network.
Faster freight services using the Vande Bharat platform could offer a competitive alternative to road transport for time-sensitive consignments, while making better use of the existing electrified rail network.
Current Status
The 130 kmph run forms part of the ongoing technical evaluation process. Commercial induction of the Vande Bharat freight train will depend on the successful completion of all required trials and clearances.
The development expands the application of the Vande Bharat technology beyond passenger services and reflects Indian Railways’ efforts to modernise freight operations with higher speeds and specialised cargo capabilities.
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