The Indian Railways' demand for changes in the design of Vande Bharat sleeper trains, including additional toilets and a pantry car, has created challenges for Russian manufacturer Transmashholding (TMH). These changes could delay production and increase project costs.

Indian Railways has not yet approved the coach design, even 14 months after signing the contract with Kinet Railway Solutions Limited, an Indo-Russian joint venture. The contract, signed on September 27, 2023, requires Kinet to manufacture 1,920 sleeper coaches and maintain them for 35 years.

Changes in Design

Initially, the trains were to have three toilets per coach and no pantry car. However, Railways now demands four toilets per coach, one dedicated pantry car per train, luggage zones in end cars, and less pantry space per train. Additionally, Railways requested 80 trainsets with 24 cars each instead of 120 trainsets with 16 cars each.

Delay in Production

TMH, which was set to start manufacturing at Marathwada Rail Coach Factory (MRCF) in Latur by the end of 2024, received these new design demands in May 2024. TMH has incorporated the changes and is awaiting Indian Railways' approval.

Increased Costs

TMH stated that the changes will increase the project’s total cost and has sought compensation from Indian Railways. The delay in design approval could further postpone production.

Source: Media Reports