Guwahati: NFR completes LHB conversion of long-distance passenger trains

GUWAHATI: Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has completed the conversion of all long-distance passenger trains operating over its network from conventional ICF coaches to modern Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches, marking a significant step towards improving passenger safety, comfort and operational efficiency.

With the completion of the conversion, 103 long-distance passenger train services are now operating with LHB coaches. Of these, 55 services belong to NFR, while 48 services are operated by other railway zones.

The modern LHB coaches are equipped with advanced safety features, including Fire and Smoke Detection Systems (FSDS), Fire Detection and Suppression Systems (FDSS) and aerosol-based fire detection systems. A total of 1,226 LHB AC coaches have been fitted with FSDS, while 155 power cars and 79 pantry cars have been equipped with FDSS. In addition, 3,436 AC coaches have been fitted with aerosol-based fire detection systems. These systems continuously monitor critical areas within coaches, enabling early detection of potential fire incidents and timely intervention. NFR said all power cars, pantry cars and AC coaches were being equipped with appropriate fire protection systems in a phased manner.

The railway also conducts regular safety drives, periodic safety audits and inspections of railway infrastructure to identify vulnerabilities in asset maintenance, safety procedures and systemic gaps. NFR said continuous efforts were being made to strengthen safety measures and ensure safer train operations across its network, a press release said.

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