The North Eastern Railway has announced a significant upgrade for the popular Kasganj-New Delhi Intercity Express. Starting August 22, 2026, trains 15303/15304 and 14315/14316 will transition from traditional Integral Coach Factory (ICF) rakes to modern Linke-Hofmann-Busch (LHB) coaches. This upgrade, confirmed by Izzatnagar division PRO Safdar Hussain, marks a major step in improving passenger comfort and safety on this route, which was recently extended to Kasganj in April 2026.
Key highlights of the upgrade include:
- Transition Date: The shift to LHB coaches commences on August 22, 2026.
- Capacity Adjustment: The rake size will move from 18 ICF coaches to 16 LHB coaches, which offer higher seating capacity due to their superior design.
- Safety Enhancements: LHB coaches feature anti-telescopic technology to prevent piling up during accidents and are built with lightweight stainless steel.
- Operational Efficiency: These coaches provide a smoother ride with advanced shock absorbers and are capable of reaching speeds between 160 and 200 km/h.
Enhanced Comfort and Wider Reach
While the reduction from 18 to 16 coaches might seem like a decrease in volume, the LHB design is physically larger and more efficient, ensuring that passenger capacity remains high while significantly improving the quality of the journey. Passengers can expect a more stable, jerk-free experience thanks to the modernized suspension systems integrated into the new rakes.
This initiative is part of the North Eastern Railway’s broader mandate to ensure that all express trains under its jurisdiction are equipped with LHB coaches by December 2026. To facilitate seamless operations, the railway has coordinated with the North Central Railway, as the train traverses through its jurisdiction.
Furthermore, the benefits of this modernization will extend beyond the Kasganj route. The same LHB rakes will be utilized for the 15305/15306 New Delhi-Rohtak Express and the 15307/15308 Tilak Bridge-Sirsa-Tilak Bridge Haryana Express. By rotating these modern coaches, the railway aims to provide a standardized, high-quality travel experience for commuters across these key corridors, reflecting a commitment to safer and more reliable rail infrastructure.