In a significant evolution within railway transportation, the traditional Integral Coach Factory (ICF) coaches are progressively being phased out in favor of the more advanced Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches. As per the announcement from the Ministry of Railways, a notable milestone has been achieved with the successful replacement of 23,000 conventional coaches with their LHB equivalents since 2015.

Trains previously utilizing conventional ICF coaches are undergoing a gradual transition to LHB coaches. These contemporary coaches offer numerous notable features, including an upgraded ride quality index, enhanced safety with a Center Buffer Coupler and anti-climbing capabilities, an Axle-mounted Disc brake system, and a robust design intended to reduce damage and prevent coach overturning in accidents.

LHB coaches, standing for Linke Hofmann Busch coaches, represent a technological leap forward in railway travel, promising passengers an elevated journey marked by enhanced safety and comfort. These coaches boast a range of advanced features, including an Anti-climbing arrangement, Secondary Air Suspension with a failure indication system, and a corrosion-resistant shell. Since the fiscal year 2018-19, Indian Railways' production units have exclusively focused on manufacturing LHB coaches, reflecting a commitment to modernization and passenger satisfaction.

Production of LHB coaches is concentrated in three key railway facilities: Chittaranjan Locomotive Works (CLW) in Chittaranjan, Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) in Varanasi, and Patiala Locomotive Works (PLW) in Patiala. It's noteworthy that Indian Railways has shifted away from conventional coaches, with around 23,000 of these coaches manufactured since 2015.

Prominent features of LHB coaches include an elevated ride quality index, the integration of a Center Buffer Coupler for enhanced safety, and an Axle-mounted Disc brake system. Engineered for durability, these coaches strive to reduce damage and prevent overturning in accidents. Furthermore, they come equipped with Bio-toilets, providing greater seating capacity, panoramic windows for expansive views, FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) panels in AC coaches, and Microprocessor-controlled AC units.

Furthermore, in a bid to elevate the passenger experience, Indian Railways has introduced the visually striking Vistadome Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches. These coaches are meticulously designed to offer panoramic vistas, featuring wider body side windows and transparent sections in the roof. Currently, 57 Vistadome coaches traverse various broad, meter, and running gauge sections of the Indian Railways network, enriching journeys and attracting tourists with unparalleled scenic views.