Indian Railways offers several premium trains catering to different travel needs, among which Vande Bharat, Rajdhani, and Shatabdi Express trains are prominent. Each has its own advantages in terms of speed, comfort, technology, and cost. Here is a detailed comparison based on actual data and expert analysis.
Speed and Performance
- Vande Bharat Express is a semi-high-speed, self-propelled electric multiple unit (EMU) capable of speeds up to 180 km/h in tests, though operational speeds are generally restricted to 130–160 km/h due to track limitations. Its distributed power system allows faster acceleration and deceleration, reducing travel time by 10-15 minutes compared to Shatabdi on similar routes.
- Shatabdi Express, introduced in 1988, runs at a maximum speed of 150 km/h, with operational speeds mostly capped at 130 km/h on upgraded tracks. It is locomotive-hauled and uses LHB coaches, which are comfortable but have slower acceleration and braking compared to Vande Bharat.
- Rajdhani Express trains have a maximum speed of around 140 km/h and serve long-distance overnight routes. The newer Vande Bharat sleeper trainsets, designed to replace Rajdhani, are planned to reach speeds of 220 km/h, offering a significant speed upgrade.
Comfort and Amenities
- Vande Bharat trains feature modern, aircraft-like interiors with automatic doors, bio-vacuum toilets, GPS-based information systems, and better ride comfort due to reduced jerks from distributed traction. The sleeper version includes cushioned side berths and advanced safety features like Kavach.
- Shatabdi offers premium seating with onboard catering, WiFi, and comfortable LHB coaches. However, it has fewer toilets and experiences more jerks compared to Vande Bharat.
- Rajdhani provides air-conditioned sleeper coaches with vacuum-assisted toilets and good catering services. The upcoming Vande Bharat sleeper aims to surpass Rajdhani in comfort and speed.
Cost and Operational Efficiency
- The Vande Bharat trainset costs approximately Rs 100 crore to manufacture, nearly double the Rs 55 crore cost of a locomotive-hauled Shatabdi train2. However, Vande Bharat’s EMU design eliminates the need for a separate locomotive, reducing maintenance costs and improving operational efficiency.
- Track infrastructure upgrades are a bottleneck for both Vande Bharat and Shatabdi, with current tracks limiting speeds to around 130-160 km/h. Experts suggest that track modernization to fully utilize Vande Bharat’s 180 km/h potential may take a decade.
Passenger Usage and Popularity
- As of 2023, there are over 82 Vande Bharat trains in operation, with an occupancy rate of 96.62% and over 31 lakh passengers booked in FY 2022-23, indicating strong demand.
- Vande Bharat has also set records such as achieving an average speed of 100 km/h between Delhi and Allahabad, beating Rajdhani and Shatabdi on the same route.
Summary and Conclusion
Vande Bharat trains represent the future of Indian Railways with superior speed, modern technology, and enhanced passenger comfort, especially for medium-distance travel under 800 km. While Shatabdi remains a cost-effective and reliable option with good amenities, Vande Bharat’s faster acceleration and advanced features give it an edge. Rajdhani continues to serve long-distance overnight travelers well, but the upcoming Vande Bharat sleeper trains promise to revolutionize this segment with higher speeds and improved comfort. Ultimately, Vande Bharat is better suited for the evolving demands of Indian rail passengers, provided infrastructure upgrades keep pace with its capabilities
