New Delhi: In a major push to modernise railway infrastructure in Rajasthan, Indian Railways has sanctioned two significant coaching maintenance projects worth over ₹314 crore under the North Western Railway zone. The projects aim to strengthen maintenance capabilities for LHB coaches and Vande Bharat trainsets amid rising operational demands.

The first project involves the development of a Phase-I Coach Maintenance Facility at Shri Ganganagar Station at a cost of ₹174.26 crore. The upgraded facility will include two 600-metre washing lines, three 650-metre stabling lines, two pit lines, a wheel lathe line, and an engine escape line. A dedicated sick line shed and installation of advanced equipment such as synchronized jacks, Electric Overhead Travelling (EOT) cranes and an Automatic Coach Washing Plant are also part of the plan.

The expansion is expected to enhance maintenance capacity by six additional rakes per day, enabling smoother rake movement and facilitating the introduction of more passenger services in the region.

In a parallel move, Phase-II augmentation of the Lalgarh Coaching Depot has been sanctioned at ₹139.68 crore. With limited expansion scope at Bikaner, Lalgarh is being developed as a fully equipped maintenance hub. The project includes a new washing line, covered sheds over four washing lines, an extended sick line, a service building, retractable OHE systems, synchronized coach lifting systems and two Automatic Coach Washing Plants.

The upgraded Lalgarh depot will significantly strengthen preparedness for additional Vande Bharat services and modern rolling stock, ensuring improved reliability and faster turnaround times for trains operating in western Rajasthan. DeshBharat