NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): India’s first Vande Bharat freight train has successfully completed a high-speed trial at 130 km/h. The test took place on the Kota-Rohal Khurd section of the West Central Railway.
Technical teams from the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai and the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) supervised the run.
Unlike traditional freight trains that use a separate locomotive pulling wagons, this Vande Bharat freight version uses a distributed-power trainset design, the same modern platform seen in passenger Vande Bharat trains. Power is spread across the coaches, allowing smoother and more efficient performance.
Under loaded conditions, engineers evaluated electrical performance and traction, braking system and jerk levels, regenerative braking and thermal capacity. They also evaluated other
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dynamics such as suspension, acceleration, and while carrying heavy cargo.
Vande Bharat Freight Train: a new corridor for Indian Railways and Logistics
This train is built for express freight and time-sensitive cargo such as parcels, e-commerce goods, and perishables. It offers a faster, more reliable, and greener option compared to long-haul trucks by using India’s existing electrified railway network. By delivering goods more quickly and efficiently, the Vande Bharat freight train can help Indian Railways gain a bigger share of the fast-moving logistics market.
The 130 km/h run was a technical evaluation test only. The train has not been launched for commercial service yet. Further technical checks and safety certifications are required before it can start regular operations.
This successful trial marks an important step toward modern, high-speed freight movement on Indian Railways.
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