Howrah Division Of Indian Railways Introduces EMU Rake With Emergency Talk-back Units

Passenger safety in trains has been one of the most important topics of discussion. Now, Indian Railways is ready to execute the safety measures and ensure the utmost comfort to passengers. The Howrah Division of Eastern Railways has launched the ICF 3-phase Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) rake, accompanied by the state-of-the-art MEDHA propulsion system. The rake is advanced railway equipment including emergency talk-back units (ETBU) for women passengers to help them report inconveniences or dangers to the concerned railway officials.

The new rake arrived from the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai on August 11. The implementation of the rake marks a significant milestone in Indian Railways focusing on passenger service and operational efficiency. The inauguration of the passenger service began on September 4 on Train No 37542, Bandel- Naihati local. The preparation of the rake for public use was demonstrated on this day for the first time.

The new rake has enhanced features like improved surveillance and communication systems. Each coach has surveillance cameras, a Passenger Information System (PIS) and a push switch type alarm chain pull (ACP) system. The rake coach and passenger seats are made of stainless steel. In case of fire, it will increase the safety of passengers. It also has emergency assistance at the same time.

Apart from this, it also has installed systems that will help in better understanding of faults and failures. The rake also has pantograph cameras, cab cameras, front cameras, side cameras and a CCTV monitor for live monitoring and facilitating real-time fault diagnosis. Amid the demand for women’s safety, women coaches are fitted with ETBU to deal with any emergency involving women passengers. It also has features like a rake rollback protection system, fire detection system, passenger announcement (PA) system and cab AC, the rake is also environmentally friendly as it uses a regenerative braking system that saves about 30 per cent of energy consumption during braking. It also makes it cost-efficient.

As per reports, the zonal railway has introduced the rake as a pilot project. There are plants to expand the fleet and introduce more such rakes on other routes as well.