Northern Railway introduced a second air brake coach on the Kalka-Shimla UNESCO World Heritage track on Friday, May 22, 2026. This modern coach was added to the Kalka-Shimla Express (Train No. 52457) to make travel safer for passengers. The train left Kalka at 3:30 AM and reached Shimla at 8:53 AM, completing the journey in 5 hours and 23 minutes.
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What is the difference between air brakes and vacuum brakes?
The new air brake system provides much better control and efficiency compared to the old vacuum brakes. In hilly areas, especially during rains and landslides, this system is very important. While the old vacuum system took about 100 to 200 meters to stop the train after braking, the air brake system can stop the train almost immediately.
Who worked on this safety upgrade?
The air brake system was designed and integrated locally under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. Several units worked together to make this possible:
| Entity | Role/Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Northern Railway | Main executing agency for implementation |
| Kalka Workshop | Converted traditional brakes to modern air brakes |
| RDSO | Conducted oscillation and emergency braking tests |
| CRS | Performed statutory verification after trials |
Current status of trains on the route
Currently, six trains operate on the Kalka-Shimla railway track. Out of these, two trains are now equipped with the air brake coach system. The coaches use modified bogies and trolleys that meet strict safety standards for the steep slopes and sharp turns of the Himalayan region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which train now has the air brake coach?
The second air brake coach was added to the Kalka-Shimla Express (Train No. 52457) on May 22, 2026.
Why is the air brake system better for the Shimla route?
It allows the train to stop immediately, which is critical for steep slopes and landslide-prone areas, unlike the old vacuum brakes that took 100-200 meters to stop.