Indian Railways has set a target to replace the remaining older train coaches across the network by March 2028. Officials said about 25% of coaches still fall under the older category and will be phased out.
As part of the ongoing upgrade, older ICF coaches on express services are being removed and replaced with modern LHB coaches. The LHB design is described as less prone to catching fire and offers improved passenger facilities such as more comfortable seating and mobile phone charging points.
Railway officials said LHB coaches play a key role in protecting passengers during accidents. Built using German technology, they are considered significantly safer than the older ICF coaches.
Referring to the Kavaraipettai rail accident near Chennai, officials noted that despite heavy damage, passengers survived, which they attributed to the LHB coach design. They said that during derailments, these coaches are designed to separate and remain grounded rather than piling up and crushing each other.
According to the Railways, LHB coaches have already been introduced on about 75% of trains nationwide. The remaining 25% of services are planned to be converted by March 2028.
