India’s first Vande Bharat freight train undergoes 130 kmph trial run on Kota-Rohal Khurd route

The inaugural Vande Bharat freight train successfully completed a high-speed trial run on the Kota-Rohal Khurd route, reaching speeds of up to 130 kmph. This marks a crucial milestone as part of technical testing, with key systems evaluated by Railway officials. Teams from the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and Integral Coach Factory (ICF) were on hand to monitor the train's performance.

The trial focused on various aspects, including the train's electrical and propulsion systems, thermal capacity, traction and braking capabilities, and jerk levels under loaded conditions. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Saurabh Jain highlighted the significance of the regenerative energy test, which measured the train's ability to recover electrical energy during braking.

The thermal capacity test evaluated the system's performance at high speeds, while traction and braking tests verified the train's pulling and braking power. Jerk tests assessed the smoothness of acceleration and deceleration when loaded. The 16-coach Freight EMU, designed based on the Vande Bharat series, boasts modern features like advanced propulsion, braking systems, a special roller floor for parcel loading, automatic wide sliding doors, temperature-controlled facilities, CCTV surveillance, and fire detection systems.

These trials aim to assess the rake's functionality, reliability, and performance at high speeds, potentially revolutionizing parcel and logistics transportation within Indian Railways upon successful completion.