Vande Bharat Express Gets Patriotic Makeover, Draws Inspiration from National Flag

Chennai: The Indian Railways officials have announced that the 28th rake of the Vande Bharat Express, a semi-high-speed train, will be coloured saffron. Currently stationed at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, where the trains are manufactured, the new saffron Vande Bharat Express is not yet operational. Out of a total of 28 rakes, 25 are already operational on their designated routes, while two are reserved. The change in colour for the 28th rake is being implemented on a trial basis.

During his visit to the Integral Coach Factory, Union Minister of Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, inspected the facility and reviewed safety measures in the Southern Railways. He also assessed the improvements made in the Vande Bharat Express. The new colour of the 28th rake is inspired by the Indian Tricolour, reflecting the concept of Make In India. The design of the trains is carried out by Indian engineers and technicians, incorporating feedback received from field units to make necessary changes in the design, including improvements in ACs and toilets.

A new safety feature called “anti climbers” or anti-climbing devices, which are being developed, was also reviewed. These devices will become standard features in all Vande Bharat and other trains. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently flagged off two new and upgraded versions of Vande Bharat Express trains, further expanding the operational services across the country to a significant milestone of 50. With the Vande Bharat Express now serving all rail-electrified states, it has revolutionized rail travel by providing state-of-the-art amenities and reducing travel time for passengers.

The Vande Bharat Express project, aimed at manufacturing indigenous semi-high-speed train sets, began in mid-2017. Within 18 months, the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai completed Train-18, which was later renamed Vande Bharat Express in January 2019. The train showcases India’s engineering prowess and represents the Make-In-India initiative. It achieved a maximum speed of 180 kmph on the Kota-Sawai Madhopur section.