Indian Railways has officially upgraded the Prayagraj Sangam Express and the Manwar Sangam Express with modern Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) rakes, replacing the aging Integral Coach Factory (ICF) coaches. This upgrade marks a significant step forward in enhancing passenger safety and travel comfort for those commuting between Bareilly and Prayagraj. The transition to the new rakes began on July 13, 2026, for the Bareilly-Prayagraj Sangam Express and the Prayagraj-Manwar Sangam Express, with the return service from Prayagraj Sangam following suit on July 14, 2026.
Key updates regarding the coach transition include:
• Replacement of traditional ICF coaches with safer, modern LHB rakes.
• Total coach count increased from 14 to 16 per train.
• AC-3 tier capacity tripled from one to three coaches.
• Sleeper class capacity doubled from three to six coaches.
• Enhanced safety features including superior anti-climbing technology.
Superior Safety and Comfort Features
The introduction of LHB coaches brings a host of technical advancements designed specifically for passenger well-being. These coaches are engineered with a center buffer coupler coupling system, which significantly reduces the jerks and vibrations felt during travel, ensuring a smoother ride. From a safety perspective, LHB coaches are renowned for their ability to prevent climbing during a derailment, which drastically minimizes the risk of severe injuries. Constructed from durable stainless steel and aluminum, these coaches are not only robust but also capable of supporting operational speeds ranging from 160 km/h to 200 km/h.
Increased Passenger Capacity
Beyond the technical upgrades, the switch to LHB technology provides a tangible increase in space for travelers. Each LHB coach is 1.7 meters longer than the older ICF models, allowing for an expanded layout that accommodates more passengers. By increasing the total number of coaches to 16, the Railways has successfully addressed the growing demand for berths on these routes. With the number of AC-3 coaches rising to three and sleeper coaches increasing to six, passengers will now find it much easier to secure confirmed tickets, making these popular routes more accessible and comfortable for daily commuters and long-distance travelers alike.