The renowned Kalka-Shimla Railway is soon to receive a major upgrade with the introduction of narrow gauge panoramic coaches. Designed and manufactured by the esteemed Rail Coach Factory (RCF) in Kapurthala, these coaches are currently undergoing extensive oscillation trials in preparation for their upcoming operation.
With the aim of attracting tourists and providing them with a truly remarkable journey, the Kalka-Shimla heritage route will soon be adorned with these magnificent coaches. The trial phase involves four prototype coaches, each showcasing a different design: an AC Executive Chair Car, an AC Chair Car, a Non-AC Chair Car, and a Luggage Car.
The RCF faced significant challenges in this project, as the narrow-gauge tracks and coach designs were originally developed around 1908, leaving no digital data for modeling and verification. However, the dedicated RCF Design team tirelessly recreated the necessary design inputs, drawing upon their extensive experience in developing rolling stock designs for the Indian Railways’ broad gauge system.
Using the old blueprints and sketches available at the Kalka workshop, the RCF Design team created 3D models to serve as the foundation for developing modified bogies, new shell superstructures, and interior furnishing designs.
Upon receiving design approvals from the Railway Board, two prototype shells—an Air-conditioned Chair Car and a Luggage Car—were manufactured in September 2022. These shells underwent rigorous testing by the Research Designs and Standards Organization (RDSO) in October 2022, specifically for static stress analysis at the RCF.
In December 2022, these semi-furnished shells were transported by road to the Kalka workshop for further testing on the Kalka-Shimla route. These tests included pushing the shells to speeds higher than the current sectional speed to evaluate stability and ride quality.
Following successful testing under both static and dynamic conditions, the RCF finalized the interior designs that perfectly complemented the new coach structure. The fully furnished prototypes include an AC Executive Chair Car, an AC Chair Car, and a Non-AC Chair Car.
In total, the RCF will manufacture 30 state-of-the-art narrow gauge panoramic coaches, comprising 4 AC Executive Chair Cars (12-seater), 8 AC Chair Cars (24-seater), 13 Non-AC Chair Cars (30-seater), and 5 Luggage Cars. These coaches boast a lightweight shell, upgraded bogies, and an improved air brake system.
Passengers aboard these coaches can expect an enhanced travel experience. The coaches feature power windows and darkening vista glass in the upper classes, while the second-class coaches are equipped with slide windows for a wider panoramic view of the mesmerizing mountains and valleys.
Moreover, the coaches prioritize safety, incorporating modern features such as CCTV cameras, fire alarms, anti-UV coated window glasses, powered doors, heating/cooling package AC, concealed fans, LED lights, rail-mounted seats with flip backs, luxurious seating for the executive class, an onboard mini pantry, luggage bins, and inter-car gangways (Vestibules).
Each train consisting of these newly designed panoramic coaches will comprise seven coaches in total: one AC Executive Chair Car, two AC Chair Cars, three Non-AC Chair Cars, and one Luggage Car.
With the forthcoming introduction of these remarkable narrow gauge panoramic coaches, the Kalka-Shimla Railway promises an unforgettable and scenic journey for tourists and railway enthusiasts alike.