India re-issued the Vande Metro tender of $2.4 billion that covers maintenance and depot construction across 238 urban trainsets in an attempt to transform commuter travel with better capacity and streamlined operations.

Vande Metro tender relaunched in India for 238 new trains
Photo: DeshGujarat

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Vande Metro procurements information

The suburban Indian operator, MRVC, announced the order of the 2,856 cars at $2.4 billion. The trains will be unusual compared to the standard Vande Bharat configurations, with 12–18 cars, wider seat passages, and a 130 km/h design speed.

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The tender also involves technical maintenance of 35 years as well as the building of two depots. The winner is required to provide the prototype in two years and finish all the deliveries within 7.5 years.

Timeline and background of the Vande Metro project

The initial offer was proposed in mid-2023 at $5 billion but was then re-tendered with new conditions and extended schedules of deliveries. However, the bulk of the terms of procurements remain the same as in the prior offer.

The first Vande Metro is actually in commercial service in India, built at Indian Railways’ subsidiary RFC’s factory at Kapurthala. The re-launch therefore reiterates continuity in the urban rail modernisation program of the government.

Vande Metro is India’s new urban train system, configured as Vande Bharat’s variant serving commuter corridors. Vande Metro is shorter in trainset length, with a design speed of 130 km/h and greater passenger density. The initial unit is already manufactured, while the re-tender of a $2.4 billion order of 238 trainsets was undertaken in 2024. The venture is aimed at upgrading suburban transport and passenger comfort.

What is the purpose of the Vande Metro project?

Vande Metro seeks to upgrade the suburban railways in India with the introduction of more-capacity, high-speed, and efficient trains amidst growing commuter demand.

How is Vande Metro compared with Vande Bharat?

Vande Metro is lighter with reduced coaches per set compared with Vande Bharat, decreases the design speed, and wider seat passages in an attempt to boost passenger density and comfort.

When will the new Vande Metro trains be delivered?

The winner will be expected to deliver the prototype in two years. Additionally, the total fleet should be delivered in 7.5 years with long-term maintenance.

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