Bengal's first AC local train to run on Sealdah-Ranaghat route

Eastern Railway has received its first AC local train rake, marking a new era of comfortable commuting for passengers in West Bengal. This state-of-the-art 12-coach rake, arriving from the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai on Tuesday, is poised to bring air-conditioned travel to the Sealdah division, a facility already enjoyed by Western, Central, and Southern Railways. The arrival of this modern train signals a major step towards enhancing the daily travel experience for thousands of commuters.

According to sources within Eastern Railway's Sealdah division, the AC rake is currently stationed outside Dum Dum station. From there, it is slated to be moved to the Ranaghat car shed for further preparations and maintenance. If all goes according to plan, this innovative AC local is expected to commence operations on the Ranaghat-Sealdah route, potentially becoming the first AC local train in both the state and Eastern India.

Eklavya Chakraborty, Public Relations Officer of the Sealdah division, confirmed the arrival of the state's first AC rake on Wednesday. He expressed optimism that if all necessary procedures and trials are successful, the Ranaghat-Sealdah corridor will indeed be the pioneering route for this air-conditioned local train service, a welcome development for passengers enduring hot and humid weather.

The order for this AC rake was placed about two years ago, in 2023, with the Chennai-based ICF factory. The rake itself boasts a sleek white and blue exterior, featuring advanced technology. It is equipped with automatic doors, which can only be controlled by the driver and guard, ensuring enhanced safety. Inside, passengers will benefit from CCTV surveillance, a GPS tracking system for real-time information, and robust aluminum seats designed for durability and comfort. Images of this new rake have already garnered significant attention across social media platforms.

While the new rake has arrived, it will not be immediately put into public service. Initial trial runs are necessary to ensure its seamless integration and optimal performance before it is opened to passengers. However, railway officials have indicated that the fare for this premium service will be higher than that of regular local trains, potentially even double, reflecting the enhanced amenities and comfort offered.

Each of these 12-coach rakes has a seating capacity for approximately 1118 passengers. The air-conditioning units are mounted on the roof, and a comprehensive vestibule system ensures efficient air circulation throughout the entire train. Built with stainless steel, the train will operate on 25 kilovolt AC traction, capable of reaching speeds between 100 to 110 kilometers per hour. Additionally, each coach is fitted with a GPS-controlled LED display for passenger information, and importantly, no vendors will be permitted inside the train to maintain cleanliness and comfort. Railway sources also suggest that another such rake from Chennai is expected to arrive in the state soon, further expanding the AC local fleet.