Parasuram Express transitions to modern LHB coaches with revised seating configuration
Indian Railways is upgrading the popular Parasuram Express to modern Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches to significantly enhance passenger safety and comfort across its route. Passengers travelling on this scenic coastal route will soon experience smoother journeys, improved amenities, and advanced safety features. Here are the key highlights of this upcoming coach upgradation and seating reconfiguration:
- Mangaluru–Kanyakumari service (Train No. 16649) will switch to LHB coaches on September 22, 2026.
- Kanyakumari–Mangaluru service (Train No. 16650) will follow with the new rake on September 23, 2026.
- The new composition will feature 21 modern coaches in total.
- Reserved seating capacity will increase from 315 seats to 970 seats.
- General unreserved capacity will decrease from 1,680 seats to 970 seats, reducing overall general capacity by about 700 daily seats.
New Coach Composition and Breakdown
The newly configured LHB rake for the Parasuram Express will consist of 21 coaches designed to offer a superior travel experience. The rake includes two AC Chair Cars, nine Second Sitting coaches, nine General Second Class coaches, one Second Luggage-cum-Brake Van, and one Generator Car. This modern layout is part of the ongoing nationwide mandate by Indian Railways to systematically replace older Integral Coach Factory (ICF) coaches with safer, more durable LHB stock.
Impact on Seating Capacity and Passenger Demand
Travellers should note that this transition brings a notable change in the train's seating arrangement. According to the Southern Railway zone, the adjustment is being made to address the consistently rising demand for reserved tickets on this route. While the number of reserved seats will surge from 315 to 970, the number of General coaches is being reduced from 16 down to nine. This results in a daily decrease of approximately 700 unreserved seats, bringing the total general capacity down from 1,680 to 970 seats.
Advantages of LHB Technology
Migrating to LHB coaches brings immense benefits to daily commuters and long-distance travellers alike. These German-designed coaches are equipped with anti-telescopic technology, meaning they do not pile up on top of each other during a collision, vastly improving passenger safety. Furthermore, they are built using fire-retardant materials, offer higher speed potential, and feature much better suspension systems that drastically reduce jerkiness and noise levels during transit.