Vande Bharat train is 237.16% more than the construction cost of Shatabdi Express

Surat : A recent Right to Information (RTI) query has revealed a startling cost difference between two of India’s premier trains: the Vande Bharat and the Shatabdi Express. While both offer luxury travel experiences, the Vande Bharat comes with a hefty price tag – a surprising 237.16% higher than the Shatabdi, leaving many questioning the justification for such a cost disparity.

The RTI application filed by Surat-based activist Sanjay Ezhava revealed that a single Vande Bharat coach costs a staggering Rs. 6.52 crore, compared to just Rs. 2.75 crore for a Shatabdi coach. This translates to a total construction cost of Rs. 104.35 crore for a 16-coach Vande Bharat compared to Rs. 44.02 crore for a 22-coach Shatabdi Express.

Despite some key similarities, like air-conditioning, electric engines, and similar seating capacity, the significant cost difference has raised eyebrows. Both trains boast a maximum estimated speed of 130 km/h, further blurring the lines in terms of basic performance.

Ezhava argues that the high cost of the Vande Bharat cannot be solely attributed to its “advanced” features. He highlights that despite being “fully computer operated” and having “pantographs installed throughout the train,” the actual speed and passenger capacity remain comparable to the Shatabdi.

Moreover, Ezhava points out that the additional Rs. 2732.72 crore spent on building 408 Vande Bharat coaches could have yielded nearly 1000 Shatabdi coaches – potentially revolutionizing railway connectivity and accessibility.

Integral Coach Factory (ICF), the manufacturer of both trains, justifies the cost difference by highlighting the Vande Bharat’s “advanced coach technology,” including features like automatic doors, GPS-based real-time information systems, and onboard infotainment. However, critics argue that some of these features haven’t proven to be significantly beneficial to passengers compared to the basic comforts offered by the Shatabdi.

“The debate surrounding the Vande Bharat’s cost raises crucial questions about prioritizing comfort over accessibility. While technological advancements are laudable, their financial viability, especially in a developing nation like India, needs careful consideration” said Ezhava.