Indian Railways is set to transform budget train travel by launching the new Amrit Bharat 3.0 Express during the 2026-27 financial year. Confirmed through official reports, this upcoming version marks a major upgrade by introducing modern, Vande Bharat-style air-conditioned coaches to passengers who usually rely on non-AC services. Key highlights of this expansion include the deployment of 14 newly configured rakes featuring AC First, AC-2 Tier, and AC-3 Tier classes. To meet production demands, the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai is building these coaches, while the Rail Coach Factory in Kapurthala is manufacturing 50 supporting rakes. These trains will utilize advanced push-pull technology with locomotives at both ends to deliver superior acceleration, smoother deceleration, and a maximum operating speed of 130 km/h.
Enhanced Passenger Comfort and Safety Features
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inspected the prototype coaches, which boast premium interior aesthetics designed for enhanced passenger comfort. The upgraded coaches feature coordinated color schemes, durable PVC flooring, improved upholstery for seats and berths, convenient snack tables, and modern curtains. Additionally, passengers will benefit from upgraded, hygienic toilets. Ensuring top-tier passenger safety, all materials utilized in the construction of these coaches comply with stringent HL3 fire safety standards. This ambitious project builds upon the tremendous popularity of existing Amrit Bharat services, which have consistently maintained an occupancy rate exceeding 100 percent in Sleeper class since their initial launch in 2023.
New Network Expansions and Train Routes
In addition to the upcoming rollout of version 3.0, the Railway Board has officially approved seven new Amrit Bharat Express trains to significantly improve inter-city connectivity across the country. Among these newly sanctioned services, a brand new weekly Bhagalpur-Ahmedabad Amrit Bharat Express is scheduled to officially commence its operations on August 28, 2026. These ongoing developments highlight the continuous efforts of Indian Railways to modernize its fleet, expand affordable yet comfortable travel options, and accommodate the surging demand for long-distance passenger transit.