The train completed its final trial run of approximately 1,400 kms between New Delhi and Mumbai in 11 hours and 48 minutes on Sept 11 this year
The railway ministry has formed a three-member committee to study the modalities of buying rakes from Spanish train manufacturer Talgo. The three members of the committee would be Additional Members of the Civil, Mechanical and Budget stream of the Railway Board.
Speaking to DNA, Anil Saxena, chief spokesperson of the railway ministry, confirmed the development. "The committee has been asked to give the report in the earliest possible time," said Saxena.
Talgo had brought in one of its rakes for testing, and trials were carried out between May 29 and September 11 on various stretches between Delhi and Mumbai. The final trial on September 11 saw the train completing the Delhi-Mumbai stretch at sub-12 hour timings of 11 hours and 48 minutes with an average speed of 117.5 kilometres per hour.
As highlighted by DNA in its September 8 edition, the railways, in reply to a Right to Information plea by DNA, stated there is no agreement between Talgo and the Railways on testing the rake nor have the railways and Talgo signed any purchase agreement.
Officials told DNA that the committee will have to study as to whether the railways should go in for outright purchase of the Talgo rake or rakes of a similar design by other manufacturers. "The committee will also look into whether it would be prudent to lease the rake from Talgo so as to reduce financial burden. It will also decide on whether there are other routes apart from Mumbai-Delhi where it can be used," said a senior railway official.
Officials DNA spoke to maintained that the train which was tested was not conducive for running on Indian Railways under current conditions as the rake was slimmer and lower than what is ideal for platforms in India. "The width of long-distance trains in India are 3250mm and suburban trains running in Mumbai have a width of 3660mm. The Talgo Avril at 3200mm might be something that is close to what India railway conditions warrant. However, it is early days to say anything about procuring Talgo rakes," said an official.
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