India Sends First 18 LHB Coaches to Bangladesh Railway
In a major milestone for India's railway export sector, the first consignment of 18 Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) broad-gauge passenger coaches has been successfully dispatched to Bangladesh. This shipment marks a significant step in modernizing the rail network of the neighboring nation.
The consignment departed from the Rail Coach Factory (RCF) in Kapurthala, Punjab, on October 12, 2026. This initial delivery is part of a much larger agreement for 200 coaches placed by Bangladesh Railway in 2024. The project is backed by a Rs 915 crore investment from the European Investment Bank.
What is in the First Batch?
The first shipment consists of 18 specialized coaches designed to cater to a variety of passenger needs. The breakdown of the consignment includes:
- 11 Non-AC Shovan chair cars
- 3 AC chair cars
- 2 AC sleeper coaches
- 2 AC power cars
Custom Features for Bangladesh Passengers
These coaches are not standard models; they have been custom-engineered to meet the specific operational requirements of Bangladesh Railway. To ensure a high-quality travel experience, the units include several enhanced amenities:
- Enhanced Comfort: Reclining seats and partially openable windows.
- Safety First: Integrated CCTV surveillance and passenger alarm systems.
- Specialized Facilities: Dedicated Baby Care Rooms and Prayer Rooms.
- Robust Engineering: A reinforced roof structure to handle peak-time passenger loads and crashworthy provisions compliant with European Standard EN 15227.
Additionally, the electrical systems have been specifically adapted for 415 V operation to align with local infrastructure.
Resuming a Decadelong Partnership
This delivery marks a significant resumption of coach exports to Bangladesh after a ten-year gap. India previously supplied 120 broad-gauge passenger coaches to the country during the 2015-16 period. The current project is being overseen by RITES Ltd., a public sector enterprise under the Indian Ministry of Railways.
The rollout of the remaining coaches from the 200-unit order is expected to continue until December 2027, further strengthening the railway cooperation between the two countries.