Bhubaneswar–Junagarh Express Fully Upgraded to LHB Coaches
New coaches promise safer, faster, and more comfortable journeys for passengers
Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar–Junagarh Road–Bhubaneswar Express (20837/20838) is set to provide passengers with a significantly improved travel experience, as the train has now been fully converted to Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches. The upgraded service will begin operations from Bhubaneswar on August 25, 2025, and from Junagarh Road on August 26, 2025. This marks a key milestone in enhancing safety, comfort, and connectivity across Odisha and beyond.
Until now, the train operated with a mixed composition—one LHB rake and one conventional ICF (Integral Coach Factory) rake. The latest development ensures that both rakes in the up and down directions will now uniformly feature LHB coaches. This transition eliminates inconsistencies in passenger experience and brings the service in line with Indian Railways’ broader modernization goals.
The shift to LHB technology is not merely cosmetic. These coaches are designed with advanced safety mechanisms, superior ride quality, and better passenger amenities. With this conversion, travelers on the Bhubaneswar–Junagarh Express can expect smoother journeys with reduced jerks, improved suspension systems, and enhanced safety in the event of derailments or collisions.
The upgraded train will feature a carefully designed composition to cater to diverse passenger needs:
* 2 Second AC coaches
* 4 Third AC coaches
* 5 Sleeper Class coaches
* 4 Second Class seating coaches
* 1 Guard-cum-Power Car
* 1 Guard-cum-Second Class coach with facilities for Divyangjan passengers
This mix balances affordability with comfort, ensuring that both long-distance and short-distance travelers benefit. The inclusion of Divyangjan-friendly coaches underscores Indian Railways’ commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.
Earlier in August 2025, the East Coast Railway had announced that one rake of the Bhubaneswar–Junagarh Express would be converted to LHB coaches starting August 8. The full conversion of both rakes, completed within the same month, highlights the priority placed on passenger safety and service modernization.
Such timely execution also reflects the growing emphasis of Indian Railways on phasing out conventional ICF coaches, which, though cost-effective, lag behind in terms of speed potential, comfort, and safety standards.
LHB coaches, originally developed in Germany, are now the backbone of modern passenger trains in India. Unlike ICF coaches, which are prone to “telescoping” during accidents, LHB coaches are built with anti-climbing features that significantly reduce the risk of fatalities. They are also capable of running at higher speeds, up to 160 kmph, and offer better riding comfort with low noise and minimal vibrations.
For passengers, this translates into quieter journeys, more comfortable seating, and better safety assurance. For Indian Railways, it means improved operational efficiency, lower maintenance requirements, and the ability to run longer trains without compromising performance.
The Bhubaneswar–Junagarh Road–Bhubaneswar Express serves as a crucial link between Odisha’s coastal capital and its western tribal regions. It also connects major towns in neighboring Andhra Pradesh, thereby playing a vital role in regional integration and mobility.
By offering improved amenities through LHB coaches, the train is expected to see greater passenger satisfaction and potentially higher ridership. The move is part of a broader effort to strengthen connectivity between resource-rich hinterlands and the state capital, fostering economic opportunities and cultural exchange.
The full transition to LHB coaches marks not just an upgrade in rolling stock, but a broader step toward modern, safe, and passenger-focused railway services in Odisha. With this improvement, the Bhubaneswar–Junagarh Express positions itself as a reliable, comfortable, and inclusive travel option for thousands of daily commuters and long-distance travelers alike.
As Indian Railways continues to modernize its fleet, passengers across Odisha can look forward to safer and more enjoyable journeys that match global standards of travel.
