The RDSO team is conducting Confirmatory Oscillograph Car Run (COCR) trials of the 16-coach Namo Bharat Rapid Rail rake at 130 kmph between ADI-MCT, enabling speed certification. The Vande Metro, a shorter version of Vande Bharat Express, features lightweight, corrosion-resistant stainless steel, enhancing energy efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
Research Designs & Standards Organisation (RDSO) has commenced the Continuous Oscillation and Curving Resistance (COCR) trials for the 16-coach Namo Bharat Rapid Rail (NBRR) rake between Ahmedabad (ADI) and Mumbai Central (MCT). These trials, conducted at an operational speed of 130 kmph, are crucial for speed certification of the NBRR rakes in both 16-coach and 12-coach configurations. This certification will enable safer and more efficient high-speed operations, marking a significant milestone in India’s rapid rail development.
Key Features of Vande Metro:
- The Vande Metro train is a shorter-distance version of the Vande Bharat Express.
- Compared with the conventional ferritic stainless steel grade, the thickness of the external panels of train sets has been reduced from 3 mm to 2 mm, resulting in lighter, more energy-efficient, and therefore, more cost-effective trains.
- The stainless steel 201LN grade is also extremely corrosion resistant, has higher strength and superior durability, and exhibits better crash-resistant properties, thereby providing the best-in-class safety to passengers.
- The Vande Metro aims to cater to urban commuters travelling distances up to 250 km.
- It is expected to connect more than 120 cities nationwide.
- The preliminary routes include Chennai-Tirupati, Bhubaneswar-Balasore, Agra-Mathura, Delhi-Rewari, and Lucknow-Kanpur.
The RDSO’s ongoing trials for the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail and the innovative design of the Vande Metro highlight India’s commitment to advancing its rail infrastructure. These developments promise safer, more efficient, and sustainable urban and intercity rail services, fostering better connectivity and commuter experience.