Shimla: Himachal Pradesh’s iconic Kalka-Shimla railway track, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is all set to offer an enhanced travel experience to tourists with the commissioning of new panoramic coaches.
Sharing this information during the recent visit to Shimla, Union Railway and Food Processing Minister for State Ravneet Singh Bitu said that the central government is investing Rs 2,716 crore to strengthen railway connectivity in Himachal. Four major rail projects, costing a total of Rs 13,168 crore, would be completed with this amount.
He said that Vista Dome coaches would be deployed on the Kalka-Shimla World Heritage Railway, which would boost tourism in Himachal. The Bilaspur-Leh rail line, Chandigarh-Manali-Leh rail project would also get momentum.
In a significant development, six newly designed panoramic coaches have been dispatched to Kalka from the Rail Coach Factory (RCF), marking the second phase of an ambitious railway modernisation initiative.
These new coaches include first-class, second-class, general seating (GS), and chair car (CC) compartments, offering diverse travel options. Before these coaches are fully integrated into service, they will undergo rigorous trials to assess safety measures, operational efficiency, and braking systems.
Unlike traditional vacuum brakes, the new coaches are equipped with an upgraded power brake system, enhancing safety, particularly on steep inclines. Emergency braking trials will be conducted to ensure seamless operations.
The introduction of these panoramic coaches follows the successful trial of six Vistadome coaches, which have already proven to be a game-changer for railway tourism.
With approval from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the Railway Board is now strategising on the commercial rollout of these trains. The pricing structure is under review to ensure an optimal balance between affordability and premium service.
The Panoramic Vistadome coaches were conceptualised in 2024, with a contract signed between the Railway Board and RCF, Kapurthala, for the manufacture of 30 modernised coaches.
The first batch of six was successfully introduced on the track, and by the end of 2024, all necessary trials were conducted, including inspections by the Civil Aviation Ministry. So far, 13 of these advanced coaches have been delivered to Kalka, with 18 more under production.
The defining feature of these coaches is their expansive glass windows that extend up to the ceiling, allowing travellers an unobstructed view of the picturesque Himalayan landscape.
Additional enhancements include dedicated luggage compartments, digital display boards at the doors, soundproof air-conditioned compartments, and 360-degree rotating chairs for a more immersive experience.
The estimated cost of each panoramic coach is approximately INR 1 crore. The premium AC coach will accommodate 12 passengers, the AC chair car will have a seating capacity of 24, and the non-AC coach will seat 30 passengers. Additionally, a power AC coach will be dedicated to supplying electricity to the train and will house the guard’s cabin.
The introduction of these state-of-the-art panoramic coaches marks a milestone in Indian railway tourism, elevating the Kalka-Shimla railway journey into an unparalleled experience of comfort and scenic grandeur.
With improved infrastructure and enhanced safety measures, this development is set to redefine heritage railway travel in Himachal Pradesh, attracting more tourists and offering them a journey like never before.
