Hans News Service Hubballi

Ina major move aimed at enhancing passenger comfort and safety, the South Western Railway has decided to replace the old ICF (Integral Coach Factory) coaches with modern Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches on Train No. 16205/16206 Talaguppa–Mysuru–Talaguppa Daily Express. The upgraded service with LHB coaches were officially launched from both Talaguppa and Mysuru stations on Wednesday.

According to railway officials, the train will now run with a total of 18 LHB coaches. The new composition includes one AC chair car, five second-class chair car coaches, and ten general second-class coaches. Additionally, the train will have a specially designed coach for differently-abled passengers along with a luggage brake van and another luggage-cum-brake van.

LHB coaches are known for their advanced design and enhanced safety features. These coaches are built to reduce the impact during accidents, thereby ensuring greater passenger protection. They also offer improved riding comfort with reduced noise, better suspension, and smoother travel experience compared to conventional ICF coaches.

Meanwhile, in view of the increased passenger demand during the summer season, the South Western Railway has decided to extend the operation of special express trains running between Bengaluru and Kalaburagi as well as Bidar. Train No. 06207 Weekly Express will depart from Bengaluru Cantonment to Kalaburagi every Saturday from April 11 to April 25. In the return direction, Train No. 06208 will run from Kalaburagi to Bengaluru Cantonment every Sunday from April 12 to April 26. These services will complete a total of three trips in both directions.

Similarly, Train No. 06539 will operate from SMVT Bengaluru to Bidar every Friday and Sunday between April 10 and April 26. The return service, Train No. 06540, will run from Bidar to SMVT Bengaluru every Saturday and Monday from April 11 to April 27. These trains will complete a total of six trips.

The railway authorities have stated that these initiatives are part of ongoing efforts to improve passenger amenities, ensure safety, and efficiently manage seasonal travel demand. The introduction of LHB coaches and extension of special trains are expected to significantly enhance the overall travel experience for passengers.