The first high-speed train developed in India is beginning to take shape. It is important to note that this train will be manufactured entirely in India. Indian engineers are working on the design of this train, taking into account the country's needs under the guidance of Japanese specialists. Transport Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared footage of the construction of the first such train at the Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) factory in Bangalore. This train will operate on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail corridor.
The first indigenous high-speed train has been named B28. It is being created by combining modern technology and Indian engineering expertise. Structural tests are being conducted to verify strength and high-speed movement characteristics. The train's design considers the needs, comfort, and safety of Indian passengers.
The construction of this high-speed train is taking place at the Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) production site located in Bangalore. Work is underway to manufacture and test various parts of the train. BEML, a public sector undertaking involved in the production of heavy machinery and equipment, plays a key role in creating India's first indigenous high-speed train. This project is also a step towards increasing India's potential in high-speed train manufacturing.
The B28 train is designed with a test speed of up to 280 kilometers per hour, although its intended operational speed will be 249 kilometers per hour. This approximately 202-meter long train will consist of 8 coaches: 4 motorized and 4 trailer cars. Driver cabins will be located at both ends, allowing the train to be operated in both directions. International standard seating is provided for passenger comfort.
At one time, the train can carry about 557 passengers. A computer three-dimensional view of the interior of this high-speed train has been shown, which is how it will look upon completion. The train will consist of 7 standard class coaches and 1 executive class coach. In the standard class, the seating arrangement will be 3x2, while in the executive class, it will be 2x2. Two special places are also provided for people with disabilities and mobility issues. If necessary, two 8-coach trains can be coupled into a 16-coach set.
The B28 interior is designed with an emphasis on passenger comfort. It includes comfortable seats, ample legroom, large windows, LED lighting, and overhead racks for luggage storage. Power outlets for charging mobile phones and laptops will be installed. A dedicated space for large luggage is also provided. Furthermore, modern toilets equipped with a biodigester will be used.
Passengers will have access to a Wi-Fi-based entertainment system. Through this system, they can view entertainment content during the journey. Necessary information will be displayed on LCD screens inside the carriage in English, Hindi, and regional languages. Updates will also be provided through audio announcements. In case of an emergency, passengers can contact train staff directly via a two-way communication function.
To reduce air pressure and noise during high-speed travel, the front section and the entire body of the B28 are designed with aerodynamics. Airflow around the train was studied using CFD computer modeling. This will help reduce air resistance, air pressure when passing through tunnels, and noise at high speeds.
This high-speed train will use a regenerative braking system for energy saving. The train will receive electrical power from a 25 kV, 50 Hz, single-phase alternating current overhead line. The regenerative braking system allows part of the energy generated during deceleration or braking to be returned to the electrical grid, contributing to energy savings. Each coach will also be equipped with two HVAC units to maintain temperature and humidity.
