World · India Bureau
India's new 16-coach Vande Bharat train completes high-speed trial run
The extended Vande Bharat train has successfully completed trial operations, achieving speeds exceeding 180 kilometres per hour. The new model, manufactured in Punjab's Kapurthala, incorporates several enhanced features over its predecessor.
LSN India ·

Indian Railways has completed successful trial runs of an upgraded Vande Bharat train comprising 16 coaches, marking progress in the national rail modernization programme. The train demonstrated performance capabilities exceeding 180 kilometres per hour during testing, indicating readiness for potential deployment on high-speed routes.
The new model was manufactured at the Kapurthala facility in Punjab, representing an expanded version of the existing Vande Bharat fleet. The extended configuration aims to increase passenger capacity while maintaining operational efficiency on India's rail network.
The trial train features several technical enhancements compared to earlier variants. These additions reflect Indian Railways' ongoing efforts to modernize rolling stock and improve passenger comfort and safety standards across its services.
The completion of trial operations represents a significant milestone for the Vande Bharat programme, which has emerged as a flagship initiative in India's efforts to upgrade domestic train services. The successful high-speed performance during testing suggests the model may soon enter commercial operations on designated routes.
Further details regarding deployment timelines and designated service routes are expected to be announced by Indian Railways following comprehensive evaluation of the trial data.