Indian Railways unveiled upgraded WAP-5 locomotives, modernized at Chittaranjan Locomotive Works, for the Amrit Bharat train fleet. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Indian Railways
Photo: Ministry of Railways (India)

Indian Railways officially unveiled upgraded WAP-5 locomotives, modernized at Chittaranjan Locomotive Works (CLW) for the Amrit Bharat train fleet. This announcement was made by the Ministry of Railways, emphasizing the importance of this upgrade for the nation’s rail infrastructure.

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Key benefits of Indian Railways’ upgraded WAP-5 locomotives for Amrit Bharat trains

The upgraded WAP-5 locomotives feature improved aerodynamic cabins, which enhance efficiency and reduce resistance during operations. Additionally, they include a modern remote monitoring system, which optimizes diagnostics and minimizes downtime for better performance.

The Chittaranjan Locomotive Works has been producing WAP-5 locomotives since 1995, with 247 units manufactured to date. These locomotives have become a key part of Indian Railways’ high-speed passenger services.

In February, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the government’s plans to launch 50 new Amrit Bharat Express trains. These trains will provide an economical solution to meet the growing demand for faster passenger transportation.

The Amrit Bharat trains are notable for their absence of air conditioning, which helps significantly lower ticket prices and operational costs. This decision plays a crucial role in making fast and affordable transportation more accessible to a wider audience.

Production of the Amrit Bharat trains takes place at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, where the main components and coaches are manufactured. WAP-5 locomotives will operate in a push-pull configuration, ensuring reliable traction for each train on long routes.

Each Amrit Bharat train will consist of 22 coaches, capable of carrying up to 1,800 passengers, making them ideal for high-volume transportation. With a maximum speed of 130 km/h, these trains will drastically reduce travel times along key routes.

The upgraded WAP-5 locomotives demonstrate Indian Railways’ commitment to improving service quality while embracing advanced technologies. These changes will enhance passenger comfort and reduce travel times, ensuring a better overall experience.

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