Indian Railways to complete ICF coach conversion by 2028

Indian Railways is on track to complete the conversion of all Integral Coach Factory (ICF) coaches to the more advanced Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) design by the end of fiscal year 2027-28, according to railway officials. The modernisation programme represents a significant technological upgrade for the national transporter's coach fleet.

The LHB coaches offer improved safety features, better ride quality, and enhanced passenger comfort compared to the traditional ICF design that has been in service for decades. The conversion process has been gradual, with railways prioritising routes based on passenger traffic and operational requirements.

Once the conversion programme concludes, Indian Railways plans to shift its focus entirely to the Amrit Bharat platform for manufacturing new mail and express train coaches. The Amrit Bharat design represents the next generation of Indian-made coaching stock, incorporating further technological advancements and improved specifications.

The timeline reflects railways' commitment to modernising its ageing coach inventory while managing the gradual transition to newer manufacturing platforms. Officials have indicated that the completion of the ICF-to-LHB conversion will free up manufacturing capacity for accelerated production under the Amrit Bharat initiative.