TRSL to commence production of Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains in 2025

Kolkata, India (Metro Rail Today):  In a significant development for India's railway sector, Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd (TRSL) has officially announced the commencement of commercial production for Vande Bharat sleeper trains at its Uttarpara plant, scheduled to begin in June 2025. This move comes following the Indian Railways' decision to entrust TRSL, in partnership with BHEL, with the responsibility of manufacturing 80 sets of these semi-high-speed trains. TRSL, as the majority stakeholder in the consortium with a 52 percent holding, is set to produce 50-55 percent of the train components in the state of Bengal.

A Multibillion-Dollar Contract

TRSL's share in the contract for Vande Bharat sleeper trains amounts to an impressive Rs 12,716 crore out of the total Rs 24,000 crore contract secured by the consortium. The company is leaving no stone unturned as preparations for the commencement of commercial production are already underway. A significant portion of the allocated Rs 650 crore capex has been earmarked for enhancing infrastructure and creating separate production lines at the Uttarpara plant. This strategic investment will bolster TRSL's production capabilities, ensuring the seamless rollout of these advanced sleeper trains.

An Assembly Line Milestone

The first eight sets of Vande Bharat sleeper trains will be fully constructed at the Uttarpara facility. Subsequent sets will undergo final assembly, rigorous testing, and commissioning at Indian Railway's facilities in Chennai. The entire order is slated to be fulfilled over the course of six years, with the eagerly anticipated first prototype expected to be delivered within two years.

TRSL's Crucial Role

TRSL will play a pivotal role in the production process by manufacturing key components such as train bodies and interiors. Meanwhile, electrical components and other essential parts will be sourced from the consortium partner, BHEL. This collaborative approach ensures that each train is built to the highest standards of safety and efficiency.

An Exciting Future Venture

Looking ahead, TRSL has ambitious plans to establish a joint venture with Ramkrishna Forgings, aptly named Ramkrishna Titagarh Rail Wheels Limited. This venture, scheduled to commence operations in 2026, will operate a state-of-the-art plant with an annual capacity to manufacture two lakh train wheels. Once operational, it will hold the distinction of being the largest train wheel plant in Asia outside China. This strategic move not only reinforces TRSL's commitment to innovation but also positions it as a key player in the global railway industry.

Impressive Design Features

Each Vande Bharat Express sleeper train is designed to operate at speeds of up to 160 km per hour. These advanced trains consist of 16 bogies, with a remarkable capacity to accommodate approximately 887 passengers comfortably. This not only enhances the passenger experience but also contributes to the efficient transportation of individuals across the country.

In conclusion, TRSL's announcement of the commencement of commercial production for Vande Bharat sleeper trains at its Uttarpara plant in 2025 marks a significant milestone in India's railway modernization efforts. This collaboration promises to deliver cutting-edge, high-speed trains that will transform the country's transportation landscape. With TRSL's commitment to quality and innovation, the future of India's railways looks brighter than ever.