(Photo Courtesy: NFR)
Maligaon, July 13 (MExN): Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has completed the conversion of all long-distance passenger trains operating over its network from conventional Integral Coach Factory (ICF) coaches to modern Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches, making the zone fully LHB-compliant for long-distance services.
With the completion of the conversion, a total of 103 long-distance passenger trains — including 55 train services belonging to NFR and 48 services of other railway zones operating over the NFR network — are now running with LHB coaches, an official release said.
The railway said the milestone marks a significant step in Indian Railways' efforts to enhance passenger safety, comfort and operational efficiency.
The conversion was carried out in phases. During the 2025-26 financial year, six pairs of long-distance trains were upgraded from ICF to LHB coaches, while five new pairs of long-distance trains were introduced with LHB rakes.
During the current financial year, trains including the Rani Kamalapati-Agartala-Rani Kamalapati Special Express were also converted to LHB coaches, completing the transition of all long-distance trains operating over the zone.
According to NFR, the German-designed LHB coaches offer improved crashworthiness through anti-climbing and anti-telescopic features, enhancing passenger safety during accidents. They are also capable of operating at higher speeds with improved ride stability, lower noise and vibration levels, better suspension and advanced braking systems.
The coaches are built with stainless steel, incorporate enhanced fire safety features and require less maintenance, resulting in greater reliability and a smoother, quieter and more comfortable journey for passengers travelling long distances.
NFR said the completion of the conversion programme reflects its commitment to adopting modern technology and improving passenger services. It added that the shift to a fully LHB-based fleet for long-distance trains would improve travel quality for passengers in the Northeast and other parts of the country while contributing to more efficient and environmentally sustainable railway operations.
The zone said it would continue upgrading its infrastructure and rolling stock in line with Indian Railways' vision of providing a more passenger-friendly and efficient transportation system.
