Rotating seats to be removed from Vande Bharat: why are railway engineers concerned about them?

Vande Bharat Train: If you travel on the Vande Bharat train, this information is for you. In the near future, you might see changes to the 180-degree rotating seats currently available in the train's Executive Class.

Indian Railways has introduced modern trains like the Vande Bharat to ensure passengers can complete their journeys quickly and comfortably. While the fare for the Vande Bharat is certainly higher than that of standard trains, passengers enjoy a wide range of amenities. Consequently, a large number of travelers prefer journeying on the Vande Bharat.

If you have traveled on this train, you would be aware of the 180-degree rotating seats in the Executive Class, which passengers can turn according to their preference. However, the Railways is now planning a major change regarding these seats.

What is the proposed change?

Senior railway engineers have suggested fixing these seats in a stationary position instead of allowing them to rotate. There are several reasons behind this proposal.

Discussions regarding these seats

The seats in the Vande Bharat's Executive Class were recently discussed at a conference of Principal Chief Mechanical Engineers. Units involved in coach manufacturing suggested that the 180-degree rotating seats should be made stationary (fixed).

What are the reasons?

The reasons cited for fixing the Vande Bharat's 180-degree rotating seats include the following:

• The 180-degree rotating seats in the Vande Bharat's Executive Class contain numerous additional mechanical components.
• Frequent rotation of the seats can damage these components; parts may wear out or malfunction.
• Repeated malfunctions would necessitate frequent repairs to the seats. Additionally, significant space must be left around the seats to allow them to rotate.
• If the rotation system is removed, the seats would be more durable and last longer.

Has this proposal been approved?

No, it is currently only at the proposal stage and has not yet received final approval. However, the responsibility for taking this proposal forward has been assigned to the PCME (Principal Chief Mechanical Engineer) of the Integral Coach Factory, Chennai.

What amenities are available to passengers on the Vande Bharat?

• All coaches on the Vande Bharat are air-conditioned.
• It features comfortable seating for passengers.
• Passengers also get seats that can rotate 180 degrees.
• Additionally, charging sockets are provided near every seat.
• CCTV cameras are installed in the train for security.
• Meals are provided to passengers if they select the food option while booking their tickets.
• Apart from these, the train offers several other amenities as well.