Sethu Superfast Express LHB Coaches Upgrade for Chennai-Rameswaram
Southern Railway upgrades the Sethu Superfast Express and Tiruchendur Express with modern LHB coaches for improved safety and comfort.
Southern Railway has officially enhanced the travel experience for passengers by introducing modern Sethu Superfast Express LHB coaches on the route between Rameswaram and Chennai Egmore. This upgrade is part of a major push to modernize rolling stock and improve safety standards across the network.
New Coach Rollout Schedule
The transition to the advanced Linke-Hofmann-Busch (LHB) technology was implemented for several key services in October 2026. The rollout followed a specific schedule to ensure seamless service transitions:
- Train Number 22662 (Rameswaram–Chennai Egmore): Commenced LHB service on October 19, 2026.
- Train Number 22661 (Chennai Egmore–Rameswaram): Began operating with new rakes on October 22, 2026.
- Train Number 22605 (Chennai Egmore–Tiruchendur): Received LHB coaches on October 20, 2026.
- Train Number 20606 (Tiruchendur–Chennai Egmore): Started service with LHB rakes on October 21, 2026.
Upgraded Coach Composition
The new LHB rakes offer a variety of travel options to cater to different passenger needs. The updated composition for these services includes:
- One AC First Class coach
- Two AC 2-tier coaches
- Three AC 3-tier coaches
- Nine Sleeper Class coaches
- Four General Second Class coaches
- One coach specifically for differently-abled passengers
- One luggage-cum-brake van
Advanced Safety and Riding Quality
The move from conventional coaches to LHB technology brings significant technical advantages. These coaches are engineered with a focus on passenger protection and a smoother ride.
The LHB coaches are equipped with advanced features such as anti-collision technology, enhanced braking systems, and crumple zones designed to absorb impact during accidents.
This modernization effort is part of a broader Indian Railways initiative to replace over 50,000 conventional coaches by 2030. By transitioning to LHB units, the railway aims to bolster the safety and overall riding quality of the national rail network. Manufacturing support for this massive transition is provided by facilities including the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai, Chittaranjan Locomotive Works, Banaras Locomotive Works, and Patiala Locomotive Works.