What’s inside:
This article discusses the reduced speed of the Gatimaan Express and Vande Bharat trains on the Delhi-Agra route due to the delay in implementing the Kavach safety system.
The Gatimaan Express and Vande Bharat trains, which usually travel at 160 km/h, have been running slower at 130 km/h for over a year now. This change is because the Kavach automatic train protection system is not yet ready on the Delhi-Agra rail route. The Railway Board has ordered this speed limit until the Kavach system is operational.
An RTI response from Indian Railways confirmed that several train numbers, including the Gatimaan Express and Vande Bharat, are currently limited to 130 km/h. This decision is to ensure safety until the new technology is fully set up and tested.
Passengers should note that the Gatimaan Express was launched in 2016 to connect Delhi and Agra in just 100 minutes. However, it has now been delayed in reaching its maximum speed. The current speed affects the overall travel time, but the trains will continue to operate at this reduced speed until further notice.
It has been reported that the punctuality of these trains from April to July was around 77.9%. Work on the Kavach system is ongoing, with installation of equipment already in progress. The authorities are working to ensure everything is in place for safe operation.
Looking ahead, the Railway Board has been evaluating the situation and continues to push for the Kavach system’s completion. Once ready, the trains can resume their faster speeds, improving travel times for passengers between Delhi and Agra.
Summary:
- The Gatimaan Express and Vande Bharat trains are running slower at 130 km/h.
- This speed limit is due to the delay in the Kavach safety system.
- Passengers may experience longer travel times as a result.
- Current punctuality of these trains is about 77.9%.
- Efforts are ongoing to complete the Kavach system for faster speeds soon.