Gujarat's Amrit Bharat Express Gets High-Tech Drone Wash: A Glimpse into the Future of Train Maintenance

In a groundbreaking move signaling a new era for Indian Railways, Gujarat's inaugural Amrit Bharat Express has undergone a revolutionary cleaning process – a high-tech drone wash. This innovative method, performed at Vapi Railway Station under the Western Railway zone, marks a significant leap towards efficiency, sustainability, and safety in train maintenance.

Traditionally, washing a 22-coach train like the Amrit Bharat Express is a labor-intensive and time-consuming task, often taking up to 1.5 hours and consuming a staggering 8,000 liters of water.

However, the introduction of drone technology has dramatically altered this landscape. The drones can complete the exterior cleaning of the entire train in a mere 20 minutes, utilizing a significantly reduced 300 liters of water. This not only offers a massive saving in operational time but also represents a monumental step towards environmental conservation by drastically cutting water consumption.

The drones deployed for this task are no ordinary machines.

Equipped with advanced cameras, high-pressure sprayers, intelligent sensors, and specialized brushes, they are capable of reaching every nook and cranny of the train's exterior. This includes challenging areas that are difficult or risky for human personnel to access. The precision and speed of these automated cleaners ensure a spotless finish, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and longevity of the coaches.

Beyond the impressive speed and water savings, drone washing also brings substantial cost-effectiveness by reducing the need for extensive manual labor.

Furthermore, it elevates safety standards for maintenance staff by minimizing their exposure to potentially hazardous conditions during cleaning operations, especially at heights or in confined spaces.

The Amrit Bharat Express itself is a marvel of modern engineering, designed as a 'push-pull' train with 22 non-AC sleeper and general coaches, catering to long-distance travelers.

Currently, two such trains are operational, connecting crucial routes like Ayodhya-Darbhanga and Bengaluru-Malda Town. The successful implementation of drone washing on Gujarat's first Amrit Bharat Express at Vapi paves the way for wider adoption across other trains and railway zones in the country.

This initiative underscores Indian Railways' commitment to embracing cutting-edge technology to enhance operational efficiency, promote sustainability, and provide a superior travel experience for its passengers.