Vadodara MEMU Shed Gets High-Tech Automatic Coach Washing Plant
Western Railway has revolutionized its maintenance operations with the installation of an Automatic Coach Washing Plant (ACWP) at the Vadodara MEMU Car Shed. As the first facility of its kind in Gujarat, this plant marks a significant transition from labor-intensive manual cleaning to a sophisticated, automated technological process for Vadodara MEMU coach washing.
Speed Meets Precision
The new plant is designed for rapid turnaround and extreme efficiency. A standard 24-coach train can be completely cleaned in just 10 to 12 minutes while moving at a controlled speed of 4 kilometers per hour. To ensure the exterior remains spotless without risking damage to the coach's paint, the system utilizes a combination of high-pressure water jets and specialized rotating cotton and nylon brushes.
Massive Capacity and Sustainability
The infrastructure is built to handle heavy workloads, boasting a daily capacity of 240 coaches. Beyond speed, the plant is a major win for environmental conservation. By recycling 80% of its water, the system saves approximately 950 liters of water per coach compared to the 1,200 liters typically required for traditional manual washing.
Economic and Operational Benefits
The shift toward automation provides significant advantages for the railway's bottom line and workforce management:
- Cost Savings: The plant is estimated to provide an annual saving of approximately Rs 26,45,082, based on an average throughput of 30 coaches per day.
- Labor Efficiency: Automation has drastically streamlined the workforce. Where 24 staff members were previously required for manual cleaning, the new plant operates with only two operators.