Railways to replace ICF with LHB coaches on Sabarmati–Jammu Tawi Route from Jan

Irfan Yattoo
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13 Dec 2025

Jammu, Dec 13: Northern Railway’s Jammu Division has decided to replace conventional ICF coaches with modern LHB coaches as part of an ongoing effort to upgrade rolling stock on long-distance trains and improve operational safety. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu Division, Uchit Singhal said the upgrade marks a step towards modernization of passenger services. He added that passengers travelling on the Sabarmati–Jammu Tawi Express from January 2026 onwards will experience enhanced safety and comfort, he said. "The decision is part of an ongoing effort to upgrade rolling stock on long-distance trains and improve operational safety. The Sabarmati–Jammu Tawi Express will run with a full rake of 20 LHB coaches, replacing the existing ICF coaches currently in use," he said. According to railway authorities, LHB coaches are designed with anti-telescopic features and Center Buffer Couplers (CBC), which significantly reduce the risk of passenger casualties in the event of an accident. The coaches are also equipped with improved suspension systems and better ventilation, aimed at enhancing passenger comfort during long journeys. Officials said the introduction of LHB coaches will also allow higher operational speeds compared to ICF coaches, contributing to improved efficiency on the route. Railway authorities have advised passengers to check the official Indian Railways website or the National Train Enquiry System (NTES) application for updated details regarding the train’s composition and services. Meanwhile, Railways has introduced a new lead wire–based sealing system in parcel luggage SLRs, replacing the traditional lac sealing method, as part of efforts to strengthen security and minimise fire hazards in parcel operations. The new system was implemented on December 13, 2025, under the supervision of the Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu Division. Railway officials said the decision was taken to address safety concerns associated with lac sealing and to improve the overall reliability of parcel traffic handling. According to officials, the lead wire sealing mechanism significantly reduces the risk of fire and is easier to handle during operations. The system uses a plunger bearing an engraved station impression or seal, which ensures better authentication and enhances the security of consignments transported in parcel vans. Singhal said the move reflects the railway administration’s commitment to ensuring stronger security arrangements for railway premises as well as goods carried through parcel services. He added that the initiative is aimed at improving safety standards while maintaining operational efficiency in parcel traffic across the division.