KSR Bengaluru–Kannur Express, SMVT Bengaluru–Murudeshwar Express to run with LHB coaches from May

In a bid to enhance passenger comfort, the Indian Railways will upgrade select trains connecting Bengaluru with coastal Karnataka and northern Kerala with modern LHB (Linke Hofmann Busch) coaches. The conversion, confirmed by the Palakkad Division of Southern Railway, will begin in May.

According to the official release, four trains will switch to LHB coaches: Train No. 16585 SMVT Bengaluru–Murudeshwar Express from May 5; Train No. 16586 Murudeshwar–SMVT Bengaluru Express from May 6; Train No. 16511 KSR Bengaluru–Kannur Express from May 7 and Train No. 16512 Kannur–KSR Bengaluru Express from May 8

The announcement comes after the earlier conversion of the Matsyagandha Express to LHB coaches. Once converted, each train will operate with a total of 20 LHB coaches.

The composition will include: 1 First Class AC; 2 Two-Tier AC; 4 Three-Tier AC; 7 Second-Class Sleeper and 4 General Second-Class and 2 Generator Car Coaches

The current ICF configuration has 22 coaches, including First Class AC, Two-Tier AC, Three-Tier AC, Second-Class Sleeper, General Second-Class, and Luggage-cum-Brake Vans.

The Railway release stated that LHB coaches provide a safer and more comfortable travel experience. “The transition to LHB coaches offers several advantages, including enhanced safety during accidents, as these coaches remain upright in a zigzag manner instead of derailing.” It also noted, “The coaches also reduce noise levels and feature modern toilet facilities with an upgraded design.”

The Matsyagandha Express, which connects the Karnataka coast with Mumbai, was previously upgraded to LHB coaches. According to the Railway release, the conversion fulfilled a long-standing demand from passengers. These LHB coaches, built with advanced German technology, have been operational since February 17.