Kolkata: In a landmark step towards enhancing passenger comfort, particularly during the sweltering summer months, the Sealdah Division of Eastern Railway is set to introduce an Air-Conditioned EMU (Electric Multiple Unit) service between Sealdah and Ranaghat. This will be the first-ever AC EMU service in Eastern India, marking a new chapter in suburban travel.
The service aims to meet the growing demand for safe, comfortable, and affordable suburban commuting. The fare structure has been kept pocket-friendly, with flexible options for single journeys, weekly, fortnightly, and monthly passes.
Technical Highlights of the AC EMU Rake:
- Make & Speed: Elegant ICF-manufactured rake operating on 25 KV AC traction, with a top speed of up to 110 km/h.
- Full AC Comfort: All 12 coaches are air-conditioned, made with stainless steel bodies and straight side walls, connected end-to-end by sealed wide vestibule gangways.
- Automatic Doors & Panoramic Windows: Four electrically operated double-leaf automatic sliding doors per side in each coach, along with wide double-sealed glass windows for better visibility.
- Seating Capacity: Three-seater stainless steel seats across all coaches, accommodating 1,126 passengers in total.
- Modern Amenities: CCTV surveillance, wear-resistant rubber flooring, aluminium luggage racks, GPS-based LED passenger information displays, automated announcements (including door-side alerts), and talk-back systems.
- Safety First: Doors will remain closed while in motion and open only at stations, controlled entirely by the driver or guard.
- Affordable Fares:
- Dum Dum: ₹35 (MST ₹620)
- Barrackpore: ₹60 (MST ₹1,275)
- Naihati: ₹90 (MST ₹1,810)
- Ranaghat: ₹120 (MST ₹2,430)
Railway officials believe this initiative will redefine suburban travel in Kolkata, easing the rush-hour crush while offering passengers relief from extreme weather conditions. With its modern design and accessible fares, the new AC EMU promises a game-changing commuting experience for the City of Joy.
