The Business Bytes
NEW DELHI, MAY 14, 2024 (TBB BUREAU): A groundbreaking advancement in India’s inter-city travel services has emerged as the Indian Railways unveils its pioneering Vande Metro train, proudly crafted by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai. Adding to its prestige, Jindal Stainless, the nation’s premier stainless steel manufacturer, has contributed the tempered 201LN grade of high-strength stainless steel for this momentous project.
The Vande Metro train, akin to a compact version of the esteemed Vande Bharat Express, showcases a revolutionary design. The adoption of the 201LN grade stainless steel has facilitated a remarkable reduction in external panel thickness from 3mm to 2mm. This breakthrough not only results in lighter and more energy-efficient trains but also promises greater cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, the 201LN grade stainless steel offers unparalleled corrosion resistance, heightened strength, enhanced durability, and improved crash-resistant properties, ensuring top-tier safety for passengers.
Abhyuday Jindal, Managing Director of Jindal Stainless, expressed his enthusiasm regarding this development, stating, “We are privileged to contribute to the modernization of India’s railway infrastructure and rolling stock. It’s an honor to be a part of Indian Railways’ historic shift from the ferritic grade to 201LN stainless steel for the first time. The lightweight and energy-efficient car body will significantly reduce the carbon footprint of Indian Railways and catalyze its journey towards achieving its Net Zero target.”
Set to inaugurate its operations in July, the Vande Metro is tailor-made to cater to urban commuters traveling distances of up to 250 km. With ambitious plans to connect over 120 cities nationwide, the initial routes include Chennai-Tirupati, Bhubaneswar-Balasore, Agra-Mathura, Delhi-Rewari, and Lucknow-Kanpur.
