RITES delivers S-13 series 13-coaches DMU to Sri Lanka within project timeline

New Delhi (Urban Transport News): The Railway company RITES Limited has successfully delivered  S-13 series 13 coaches Deisel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) to Sri Lanka on November 27 within project timelines as a part of the inter-governmental cooperation between India and Sri Lanka, proving the capabilities of delivering the best-in-class rolling stock. The new rake of the DEMU was handed over on November 12 to the RITES by Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai. These rakes are manufactured under the 'Make in India' initiative of the Central Government. The first rake which was delivered on November 27, is part of an export order of six rakes of DEMU to Sri Lanka. As part of the order, ICF  Chennai will manufacture six DEMU rakes consisting of 78 coaches in five variants. The order is being jointly executed by RITES and ICF Chennai under the India-Sri Lanka economic cooperation agreement. The Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) rake is powered by a 1,800 HP onboard engine and has a newly-designed stainless steel aerodynamic front end to reduce drag at high speeds. There are many special features in the new DEMU coaches to make it contemporary and at par with Metro trains. The new DEMU coaches are equipped with new features which include GPS-based passenger information system in all coaches, plush interiors, halogen-free rubber flooring, individually revolving seats and the individual audio controls for AC class passengers. The new DEMU rakes are a combination of two driving power cars with economy class seating, two driving trailer cars with economy class seating, two business class chair cars, two air-conditioned chair cars with rotatable seats, and five economy class coaches. The DEMU has 13 coaches and the design of the coaches was finalized as per the customer's choice and ICF has fully geared up to meet the export order in time. Most of the railway lines in Sri Lanka are along sea coastal areas, rail coaches are prone to corrosion. According to the ICF officials, "To prevent this, the car body along with all interior fittings have been made of authentic stainless steel and special paint has been used on the coaches and under-frame to prevent corrosion. Special high glass anti-graffiti paint provided on the body of these coaches that will be appealing and long-lasting.

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