Check out photos of ICF's first AC EMU train for Southern Railway

CHENNAI: The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) unveiled visuals of its inaugural air-conditioned Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) designed for Southern Railway on Wednesday.

The 12-car AC EMU, capable of clocking 100 kmph, has a seating capacity of 1,116 persons and can accommodate 3,798 standees.

One of the key features of the AC EMU would be the energy-efficient Electro-Pneumatic Braking System comprising both electrical and pneumatic components to control the application of compressed air to brake cylinders. The system, which is on par with the regenerative brake system of the Metro trains, would save electrical energy up to 35 per cent, sources said.

Unlike conventional rakes, the AC EMU has a stainless steel body and also has automatic doors.

It would have three-seaters and LED displays, and public announcement system and CCTVs for passenger safety.

In a first in the EMU segment in Southern Railway, each doorway would have the passenger talk-back system like the one that Metro Rail coaches have.

Considering the horrific incident in Vellore where a pregnant woman was pushed off a train last week, the talk-back facility and CCTV surveillance would offer better safety and security for passengers, mainly the women.

The AC train is expected to start running from next month, and as DT Next had reported earlier, it is most likely to be operated on the busy Chennai Beach – Chengalpattu route.

Also Read: EMU passengers in Chennai, suburbs seek AC trains on all routes

Meanwhile, highly placed Railway sources told this newspaper that the Southern Railway has requested another AC EMU rake for its suburban sector.

(With inputs from K Karthikeyan)