The railways has upgraded the coaches of trains operating between Mangaluru and Chennai from conventional Integral Coach Factory (ICF) to modern Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches.
The LHB coaches have enhanced safety features, provide superior riding comfort and accommodate more passengers across all classes.
The trains whose coaches have been upgraded are Train No. 22637/22638 Dr. MGR Chennai Central – Mangaluru Central – Dr. MGR Chennai Central West Coast Superfast Express and Train No. 12601/12602 Dr. MGR Chennai Central – Mangaluru Central – Dr. MGR Chennai Central Chennai Mail Superfast Express.
Those trains now have one First AC cum Two Tier Coach (38 berths per coach); one Two Tier AC Coach (54 berths per coach); five Three Tier AC Coaches (78 berths per coach); nine Sleeper Class Coaches (78 berths per coach); four General Second Class Coaches (100 seats per coach); one Generator Car Coach; and one Second Class Luggage cum Brake Van Coach (40 seats per coach).
Overall, the conversion to LHB coaches enables higher passenger accommodation without increasing the number of coaches, thereby improving operational efficiency and passenger convenience, a Southern Railway release said.
The LHB coaches provide smoother and more stable ride due to advanced suspension system and have improved braking efficiency with disc brake system. They require less maintenance and provide better hygiene with stainless steel coach design.
They have enhanced safety through anti-climbing features and stronger couplers, the release stated.
Published – February 04, 2026 07:24 pm IST
