COIMBATORE: The conventional coaches of the Chennai Central–Mettupalayam Nilgiri Express trains (nos. 12671 and 12672) will be replaced with Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches from March 3 and 4, according to Southern Railway.
In a press release, the Salem railway division said that the new composition will include one AC First Class, two 2-Tier AC, three 3-Tier AC, two 3-Tier Economy AC, eight Sleeper Class, four General Second Class coaches, one Luggage-cum-Brake Van with accommodation for the differently abled, and one power car.
The Chennai Central–Mettupalayam Nilgiri Express (no. 12671) departs from Chennai Central at 9.05 pm daily and reaches Mettupalayam at 6.20 am the next day. This train will feature LHB coaches from March 3. The Mettupalayam–Chennai Central Nilgiri Express (no. 12672) departs from Mettupalayam at 9.20 pm daily and reaches Chennai Central at 6.25 am the following day, with LHB coaches introduced from March 4.
LHB coaches, originally developed by Linke Hofmann Busch in Germany, are now manufactured in India. They are designed for higher speeds and can accommodate more passengers than conventional coaches. In addition to being lighter, these coaches feature aesthetically superior interiors and require less maintenance. Each coach is equipped with an advanced pneumatic disc brake system for efficient braking at high speeds and has modular interiors for enhanced comfort. The improved suspension system provides a smoother ride, while the use of fire-retardant materials in the furnishings enhances safety. The air-conditioning system in these coaches also has a higher capacity, ensuring a more comfortable travel experience, the release added.