​

The Central Railway recently received its first 12-car non-AC automatic door-closing EMU rake equipped with hi-tech system.

According to a release, the rake named “Medha”, manufactured by Integral Coach Factory, is currently stationed at Kurla Car Shed and introduces modern safety and comfort features while maintaining the affordability of non-AC local train services.

Officials said that the new rake is designed to improve passenger safety, particularly on high-density routes in Mumbai.

Automatic doors with enhanced safety

The train is fitted with automatic sliding doors featuring an anti-drag mechanism to prevent accidental falls and unsafe travel. The doors also include louvred sections to ensure adequate airflow.

Improved passenger comfort

The rake includes stainless steel seating in second class and cushioned seating in first class, along with improved grab poles. Wider windows have been added for better ventilation and natural light, while roof-mounted ventilation units provide fresh air at a higher capacity than existing systems, CR said. 

The train also features vestibule connectivity with half gangways, allowing better passenger movement and more even crowd distribution across coaches, CR further added. 

Upgraded emergency and safety systems

The rake is equipped with a modified emergency alarm system that can be reset externally, along with multiple evacuation provisions such as sliding doors, tubular partitions, and wider ladders.

Advanced smoke and heat detection systems have been installed, and all coaches are fitted with CCTV cameras for enhanced security.

Crew-friendly additions

The train includes a Crew Voice and Video Recording System (CVVRS) and air-conditioned driving cabs to improve working conditions for staff.

Trials before passenger service

The rake will soon undergo Confirmatory Oscillograph Car Run (COCR) trials, specialised tests to record dynamic parameters like speed, acceleration, oscillations and ride quality, by the Research Design and Standards Organisation to assess speed, stability, and ride quality.

Passenger convenience and safety trials will also be conducted to evaluate braking performance, door systems, alarms, and integration with signalling systems.

The train will be introduced for public use after successful completion of these trials.

Key concerns observed

One of the immediate concerns is that coach alignments may differ from existing trains due to the technical design of the new rake. This could lead to last-minute confusion and passenger scrambling on platforms. Additionally, there are apprehensions that the door opening and closing mechanism may impact train halt times and potentially cause delays.