Pvt trains to have sliding doors, surveillance systems: Rly draft
NEW DELHI: Private trains, which are scheduled to begin operations by 2023, are proposed to include features like electronic sliding doors, surveillance mechanisms with a minimum of six cameras per coach, and information systems for automatic display of destination information in Hindi, English, and regional languages.
The railway ministry on Wednesday issued draft specifications for private trains that are to operate on 109 proposed routes. “Trains shall be designed so that they can operate safely at a maximum speed of 180 kmph during testing. The train shall be designed for a life of 35 years. The train shall be designed so as to minimize the risks posed by obsolescence,” said the draft specifications. The trains will be designed to run at a maximum speed of 160 kmph. The ministry expects a reduction in journey time by around 10-15% at 130 kmph and around 30% at 160 kmph. Initially, they will run at 130 kmph and are slated to run at 160 kmph by March 2024, according to ministry officials.
The ministry held a pre-bid meeting on Wednesday with private players, who will be given full freedom to decide the fares and have the option of either purchasing the trains or leasing them. “The Passenger Car Surveillance System (PRSS) shall comprise of an IP based close circuit television (CCTV) network, surveillance cameras and other accessories as required with on board equipment for streaming of video to the central server for selected cameras. Each sitting car of train shall be provided with minimum six surveillance cameras to cover the passenger area. For a sleeper train, each car shall be provided with two surveillance cameras at appropriate location to cover the entire corridor. In addition, adequate numbers in the gangway/vestibule area as deemed necessary shall also be provided, “the draft specifications said.
According to the draft specifications, the private trains shall have a minimum of 16 passenger cars. The minimum length of a train shall be 384 meters, buffer to buffer. The maximum train length shall not exceed that of the longest passenger train operating on a route of the railway network.
Each coach will be provided with two digital destination boards displaying the originating, destination station, vehicle, and train number. An emergency talk-back option will be provided in each coach. Once pressed, it shall be possible for passengers to communicate with train drivers or guards. “All users shall be able to contact the Loco Pilot/Guard/ TS by activating an emergency alarm signal handle to stop the train and receive assistance. The effect on the train of an activated alarm signal may vary, depending on the location of the train and the lines on which it is travelling,” the specifications said.
The trains will also have braille signs. The specifications said normal and emergency equipment and controls, which the users or crew may operate, shall be clearly identified, and operating procedures shall be presented in both text and graphic formats. “Passenger emergency signs shall also be embossed in Braille raised typeface.”