In a significant boost to international rail cooperation, the Rail Coach Factory (RCF) in Kapurthala, Punjab, successfully rolled out the first rake of 19 Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) broad gauge passenger coaches destined for Bangladesh Railway on August 12, 2026. This shipment marks a major milestone as the first export of its kind following the recent regime change in Bangladesh and highlights the strengthening of bilateral transport ties.
- 19 LHB coaches dispatched as the initial rake of a larger 200-coach order.
- Project executed by RITES Limited with a total value of ₹915 crore.
- Funding provided by the European Investment Bank.
- Delivery schedule spans from June 2026 to December 2027 across seven variants.
- The 19-coach rake includes 3 AC Sleeper Cars, 3 AC Chair Cars, 11 Non-AC Chair Cars, and 2 Power Cars.
Enhanced Design and Passenger Amenities
The LHB coaches are globally recognized for their superior safety standards, reduced maintenance requirements, and high operational efficiency. To ensure they meet the specific needs of Bangladesh Railway, these coaches have been customized with a crashworthy design compliant with European Standard EN 15227. Furthermore, the electrical systems have been configured for 415 V operation to suit local infrastructure.
Passenger comfort remains at the forefront of this design. The coaches feature reclining seats with stainless steel armrests and footrests, alongside a reinforced roof structure to manage high passenger loads during peak travel seasons. Beyond standard travel amenities, the coaches are equipped with modern conveniences including integrated CCTV surveillance, a passenger alarm system, and partially openable windows. Recognizing the specific cultural and social requirements of the region, the design also incorporates a dedicated Baby Care Room and a Prayer Room.
A Legacy of Cooperation
This initiative builds upon a successful history of collaboration between the two nations. RCF previously supplied 120 LHB broad gauge coaches to Bangladesh between 2015 and 2016. The current order for 200 coaches was secured by RITES Limited in May 2024 through a competitive global bidding process. As these coaches make their way to Bangladesh, they signify not only a technological upgrade for the neighbouring country’s rail network but also the continued excellence of India’s railway manufacturing capabilities on the global stage.