Eastern Railway To Launch AC EMU Trains With Fares Starting At ₹29 On Sealdah–Ranaghat Route
Eastern Railway To Launch AC EMU Trains With Fares Starting At ₹29 on Sealdah–Ranaghat Route: Eastern Railway is stepping into a new era of suburban travel with the upcoming launch of fully air-conditioned EMU local trains. Aimed at enhancing passenger comfort and addressing growing commuter demand, these AC trains offer advanced features and affordable fares. The first of these rakes has already arrived from Chennai’s Integral Coach Factory and has been sent to Sealdah for trials. With smart interiors, high safety standards and a rationalised pricing structure, the service promises to redefine daily local train journeys for thousands in the Kolkata suburban network.
AC EMU Trains Arrive for Trial
Eastern Railway has received the first air-conditioned EMU rake built at the Integral Coach Factory, Chennai. It has been sent to the Sealdah Division for trial runs and testing. A second rake is also expected to arrive shortly.
Sealdah–Ranaghat Route Selected for Operation
The Sealdah–Ranaghat suburban corridor has been chosen to run the new AC EMU trains. This decision is based on current usage trends and passenger load patterns. Regular services will begin after successful trials.
Affordable Fares for Daily Commuters
Indian Railways has rationalised fares to make these AC locals accessible. For journeys up to 10 km, the fare is ₹29. Travel between 11 km and 15 km will cost ₹37. Monthly season ticket (MST) options are also available, starting at ₹590 for short-distance travel. The fare slabs are designed to benefit regular passengers and encourage usage.
Coach Features and Passenger Comfort
Each 12-coach rake is fully air-conditioned and made from stainless steel. The straight sidewall design and sealed vestibules allow passengers to move smoothly between coaches. Coaches come with modern, wear-resistant rubber flooring, wide panoramic windows and three-seater stainless steel seats.
Smart Entry and Safety Features
Each coach includes four double-leaf automatic sliding doors on each side. These doors open only at stations and stay closed while the train is moving, ensuring passenger safety. Control over door operations lies solely with the train driver and guard.
Better Air Circulation and Spacious Interiors
The new design ensures improved air flow and ventilation. Passengers will feel a sense of freshness and enjoy more standing room. The vestibule space adds to the open layout, providing better movement within the rake.
Real-Time Passenger Information System
Every coach is equipped with GPS-based LED displays to show location and announcements. This system keeps passengers informed about upcoming stations and important alerts.
Security and Surveillance
CCTV cameras cover all coaches for added passenger security. Additional features include aluminium modular luggage racks and bright interior lighting. Together, these amenities aim to create a secure and comfortable commuting experience.
Promising a New Travel Experience
With modern interiors, improved security, better passenger communication and economical fares, the new AC EMU locals promise a much-needed upgrade for suburban travellers in the Kolkata region. Eastern Railway is confident that this move will bring a refreshing change to daily travel for thousands of passengers.
FAQs
Q1. When will the new AC EMU trains start running on the Sealdah–Ranaghat route?
The trains are currently undergoing trial runs in Sealdah Division. Regular services will begin soon after successful testing.
Q2. What is the fare for the new AC EMU trains?
Fares start from ₹29 for journeys up to 10 km and ₹37 for travel between 11–15 km. MST fares begin at ₹590.
Q3. What safety features are included in the coaches?
The trains have automatic sliding doors, CCTV surveillance, and GPS-based information systems to ensure passenger safety and convenience.
Q4. Can passengers move between coaches while the train is running?
Yes, vestibule gangways connect all coaches, allowing easy movement throughout the train.
Q5. What is the seating capacity of these AC EMU trains?
Each rake has a seating capacity of approximately 1,100 passengers with comfortable three-seater stainless steel seats.
Image Credit: Eastern Railway