Advanced Amrit Bharat 3.0 train project delayed in design stage

New Delhi: The prototype of Amrit Bharat 3.0 is likely to take nearly a year to become operational, as it remains in the design stage, according to official sources. The Integral Coach Factory (ICF), which manufactured the earlier Amrit Bharat versions, has undertaken production of the upgraded train.

Sources said the design is still being finalised and may undergo further modifications before full-scale manufacturing begins. Given the present status, the prototype trains are expected to be ready by the end of December, indicating a delay from the earlier target.

The Amrit Bharat 3.0 project was announced by ICF General Manager U Subba Rao during his Independence Day address in August. In his Republic Day speech this year, he had stated that two prototype trains would be delivered by March 2026. However, officials have now confirmed that the production schedule has been revised.

The new Amrit Bharat 3.0 trains are designed to run at speeds of up to 130 kmph. The rake will include both AC and non-AC coaches, similar to conventional express services.

The earlier Amrit Bharat non-AC trains were introduced by Indian Railways in January 2024. The trains were positioned as an affordable alternative inspired by the Vande Bharat Express, aimed at improving travel standards for middle-class and lower-middle-class passengers.

Amrit Bharat 3.0 is expected to offer upgraded seats and berths, CCTV surveillance, semi-automatic jerk-free couplers, improved toilet facilities, better ladders, LED lighting, charging points and an emergency talk-back system to enhance passenger comfort and safety.