Amrit Bharat Express 3.0 coming soon: AC coaches at sleeper-class prices?

New Delhi: The Indian Railways is gearing up to roll out the next iteration of its budget-friendly train service the Amrit Bharat Express 3.0. The new trainsets, currently under development by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, will introduce a first-of-its-kind mix of AC and non-AC coaches, aiming to strike a balance between comfort and affordability.

Announced on the occasion of India’s 79th Independence Day, ICF General Manager U Subba Rao confirmed that the factory is planning to manufacture the new Amrit Bharat 3.0 trains based on feedback and performance insights from the earlier 1.0 and 2.0 versions.

What’s new in Amrit Bharat 3.0 trains?

Unlike the existing Amrit Bharat trains that are primarily non-AC, the 3.0 version will include both AC and non-AC coaches. This move is designed to cater to a wider section of passengers, offering more comfort options while still maintaining low-cost ticket pricing.

This blended configuration will especially benefit lower-middle-income travellers who wish for upgraded comfort but at an affordable fare.

How is Amrit Bharat 3.0 different from earlier versions?

While the 1.0 and 2.0 versions focused on offering basic but improved non-AC train travel, Amrit Bharat 2.0 introduced key enhancements like modular toilets, emergency communication systems, mobile charging sockets, and upgraded seating and lighting.

Amrit Bharat 3.0 builds upon these upgrades while introducing air-conditioned coaches, a step closer to modernisation without compromising affordability.

How many Amrit Bharat Express trains do we have?

As of now, eight Amrit Bharat Express trains are operational on routes such as Darbhanga-Anand Vihar Terminal, Malda Town-SMVT Bengaluru, Mumbai LTT-Saharsa, Rajendra Nagar Terminal-New Delhi, Darbhanga-Gomti Nagar, Malda Town-Gomti Nagar, Bapudham Motihari-Anand Vihar Terminal, and Sitamarhi-Delhi. These trains have been widely welcomed by budget travellers for their low fares and improved facilities.

Why Amrit Bharat 3.0 matters

With rising demand for affordable and comfortable rail travel in India, especially among lower-income and middle-income groups, the Amrit Bharat 3.0 could fill a crucial gap. It aims to offer a Vande Bharat-style experience but at a significantly lower price point, making long-distance train travel more inclusive.