Watch: T-18 train to run at 160 kmph, set to replace Shatabdi express

The Indian railway ministry intends to replace the high-speed Shatabdi trains with super high-speed train which could run at 160-200 kmph.

According to sources in the Indian railway ministry, the T-18 train has successfully completed its trials at 120 kmph in the stretch between Moradabad-Bareilly section.

The sources added that by next week trial runs for the T18 train will be over when it will attempt to run at 160 kmph and post successful trial of 160 kmph, T18 will also undergo a trial run at 160-200 kmph.

Sources indicated that the ministry plans to set an internal target to start the much-awaited T-18 for the public by December 15th.

T18 is likely to run on the Delhi-Bhopal route since the stretch has less curves and the train can achieve a speed of upto 160kmph during the journey.

T18 train is all set to revolutionise Indian railways and replace the Shatabdi trains with its safety, security and passenger amenity features.

Sources said earlier the Prime Minister's Office(PMO) had suggested the T-18 to take PM Modi's constituency with the Delhi-Varanasi route. Ministry sources say a final call on the route is likely to be taken next week.

The T18 will have TEJAS train-like fare structure. Flexi fare mechanism will not be applicable on T18. The fares are likely to be  20-25% higher than the Shatabdi. It will have just five or six stoppages.

Sources say with limited stoppages, T18 will be able to achieve its objective of cutting travel time.