Countries Show Interest in India’s Vande Bharat Trains
Countries like Chile, Canada, and Malaysia are interested in importing India’s Vande Bharat trains. These trains are cost-effective, with prices ranging from Rs 120 to 130 crores, compared to Rs 160-180 crores for similar trains from other countries. Vande Bharat trains also excel in speed, taking just 52 seconds to go from 0 to 100 kmph, faster than Japan’s bullet trains.
Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw’s Announcements
Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced plans to expand India’s railway network by 40,000 km. He also emphasized the progress of the bullet train project and the installation of the Kavach safety system. Kavach aims to reduce accidents by 80% and will be installed across 40,000 km of tracks and in 10,000 locomotives.
Safety Measures and Improvements
Vaishnaw highlighted several safety measures, including:
- 97,602 inspections by officials
- 90,000 signal plans verified
- 2,500 km of track renewal
- Ultrasound tests on 1.86 lakh km of track and 11.66 lakh welds
- 20 new Phased Array Ultrasound machines for testing welds
- 990 railway bridges rehabilitated
- 304 flyovers and underpasses constructed
- 5,300 fog safety devices installed
- Increased hardship and risk allowance for trackmen by 25%
Vaishnaw also reviewed a trial of an upgraded ‘Kavach’ system between Sawai Madhopur and Indargarh Railway stations in Rajasthan.
Doubts Revealed
Vande Bharat trains -: Vande Bharat trains are special trains in India that are very fast and comfortable. They are also known as ‘Train 18’.
Ashwini Vaishnaw -: Ashwini Vaishnaw is a person who works for the Indian government. He is in charge of the railways, which means he helps make decisions about trains and tracks.
Kavach safety system -: The Kavach safety system is a special technology used in trains to prevent accidents. It helps trains stop automatically if there is danger ahead.
track renewals -: Track renewals mean fixing or replacing old train tracks with new ones. This helps make train journeys safer and smoother.
bridge rehabilitations -: Bridge rehabilitations mean repairing or strengthening old bridges so they are safe for trains to cross.
trackmen -: Trackmen are people who work on the railway tracks. They make sure the tracks are in good condition and safe for trains to travel on.
