Vande Bharat Express:Uttar Pradesh‘s Rae Bareli-based Modern Coach Factory (MCF) has rolled out its first Vande Bharat Express train. With this, three Indian Railways production units are now producing the semi-high-speed trains. These are: the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, the Rail Coach Factory (RCF) in Kapurthala and the Modern Coach Factory in Rae Bareli.
In a statement, the Ministry of Railways said: “Today, i.e., 2nd May 2026, marks a landmark occasion as Modern Coach Factory, Raebareli joins the league of Vande Bharat trainset manufacturers with the rollout of its first 16-car Vande Bharat Chair Car rake.”
Earlier, speaking to IndianExpress.com, a senior MCF official said the Vande Bharat train manufactured at the factory features several improvements. This new Vande Bharat train is equipped with Siemens propulsion system.
Key features of Modern Coach Factory’s Vande Bharat train
This semi-high-speed train also features comfortable seating, jerk-free travel, fully sealed gangways and automatic plug doors for reduced noise levels. According to MCF, the train is also equipped with the indigenously-developed “Kavach” Automatic Train Protection system, advanced fire detection with aerosol-based suppression and flood protection for underslung equipment.
The train also has vacuum infusion technology which ensures a superior, high-quality interior finish. The train is fully Divyangjan-friendly, with dedicated ramps, designated spaces, and specialised facilities to ensure accessibility for all passengers, the Railways said.
Rake Composition: 16 coaches
No locomotives required
No reversal requirement at terminals
Starting acceleration 0.7m/sec2
Time to reach 160 kmph – 140 sec
Quicker acceleration
50 per cent powered axles every alternate coach powered
Anish Mondal is a journalist with over nine years of experience covering the railways and roadways. Currently a member of the Indianexpress.com editorial team, Anish specializes in high-impact sectors.
Professional Journey
Anish began his career at the public broadcaster Rajya Sabha Television (now Sansad TV), where he developed a foundational understanding of legislative processes and national governance. In 2018, he transitioned to digital financial journalism at FinancialExpress.com, spending nearly six years refining his expertise in market trends and corporate reporting. Before joining The Indian Express in 2025, he served as a key contributor at ETNowNews.com.
Education & Expertise
Anish’s reporting is backed by a rigorous academic background in communication and the humanities:
Master of Journalism and Mass Communication (MJMC) – Apeejay Stya University
Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Production (PGTVRJP) – Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication
Bachelor of Arts (English Honours) – University of Calcutta
Areas of Coverage
Connectivity: Detailed reporting on the expansion of Indian Railways and National Highway networks. ... Read More