The coaches began their journey from India on 12 October and arrived in Bangladesh on 16 October. Before entering passenger service, they will undergo technical inspection and testing at Bangladesh Railway’s Saidpur workshop.
The first consignment includes air-conditioned chair and sleeper coaches, non-air-conditioned chair coaches and a power car. The full agreement covers 200 broad-gauge passenger coaches in seven variants, with deliveries scheduled to take place in phases.
The new coaches incorporate several passenger comfort and safety features. They are equipped with reclining seats, stainless steel armrests and footrests, allowing passengers to adjust their seating positions. Other facilities include closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance, passenger alarm systems, baby care rooms and dedicated prayer rooms.
The air-conditioned coaches also feature additional fans, while some windows can be partially opened. These provisions form part of the modifications made to suit passenger requirements and operating conditions in Bangladesh.
The coach design also addresses local travel conditions during peak periods. The roofs have been reinforced to withstand additional loads when passengers travel on top of trains. According to reports on the project, the coaches also incorporate crash-safety design provisions aligned with European Standard EN 15227.
Electrical equipment has been adapted to Bangladesh Railway’s specifications. The coaches use a 415-volt electrical system to meet Bangladesh’s requirements, replacing the conventional 750-volt system used in Indian Railways coaches. The change reflects the adjustments required to ensure that railway rolling stock is compatible with the infrastructure and operating conditions of the receiving country.
India has previously supplied 120 Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) broad-gauge passenger coaches to Bangladesh in 2015-16. The latest order builds on that manufacturing relationship, with the new coaches designed around Bangladesh Railway’s passenger facilities, safety requirements and operational needs.
With the first 18 coaches now in Bangladesh, the consignment marks the initial delivery under the 200-coach agreement signed in 2024. The coaches will enter passenger service after completing technical inspection and testing at the Saidpur workshop, while the remaining deliveries are planned in phases.
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