Passengers traveling between Guntur and Visakhapatnam can now enjoy a superior journey as Indian Railways has officially upgraded the Simhadri Express with modern Linke-Hofmann-Busch (LHB) coaches. This transition marks a significant step in the South Coast Railway’s (SCoR) ongoing mission to modernize its fleet, replacing older Integral Coach Factory (ICF) coaches with safer, more robust alternatives.
Key highlights of the Simhadri Express upgrade include:
• Train No. 17239 (Guntur to Visakhapatnam) began operations with LHB coaches on June 23, 2026.
• Train No. 17240 (Visakhapatnam to Guntur) followed with the new rake on June 24, 2026.
• The upgraded rake includes a mix of AC 3-tier, AC Chair Car, second-class chair cars, and general second-class coaches.
• LHB coaches provide enhanced safety features, including anti-telescopic design and pneumatic disc brakes.
Safety and Comfort Improvements
Designed in Germany and manufactured in India, LHB coaches are widely recognized for their anti-telescopic design, which prevents coaches from climbing over each other in the event of an accident. Furthermore, the inclusion of pneumatic disc brakes ensures shorter stopping distances, significantly boosting passenger safety. Beyond safety, these coaches are engineered to provide a quieter and smoother ride due to their advanced suspension systems and superior ventilation.
Modern Amenities for Passengers
The new rake configuration for the Simhadri Express consists of one AC 3-tier coach, one AC Chair Car, six second-class chair cars, ten general second-class coaches, one generator van, and one second-class cum luggage/brake van. Inside the coaches, passengers will benefit from modern modular interiors, energy-efficient LED lighting, and 5-pin charging sockets at their seats. Safety is further bolstered by four emergency openable windows per coach and an Emergency Light Unit (ELU) that provides a six-hour backup in case of power failure.
Railway officials have noted that these coaches are not only lighter and stronger, allowing for stable travel at speeds up to 160 kmph, but they are also more fuel-efficient and require less maintenance compared to their predecessors. As Indian Railways continues its nationwide phase-out of older coach designs, the upgrade to the Simhadri Express serves as a welcome boost for commuters on this popular route.