Bhubaneswar, Sept.5 (UDN): Passengers travelling between Odisha and Bihar are set to get a more modern train experience as the East Coast Railway (ECoR) introduces Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches on the Puri–Patna–Puri Express from Saturday, September 5, 2026.
Representational Image
The upgraded coaches will be deployed on Train Nos. 18405/18406, connecting Puri with Patna Junction. The move is expected to enhance passenger comfort and safety while supporting more efficient train operations.
New Coach Composition
Under the revised arrangement, the Puri–Patna Express will comprise 18 coaches:
1 luggage-cum-generator-cum-brake van
1 luggage-cum-Divyang-friendly coach
4 general coaches
8 sleeper coaches
3 AC 3-tier coaches
1 AC 2-tier coach
The new composition will come into effect from Puri on September 5, while the corresponding service from Patna will adopt the LHB composition from September 6.
Why LHB Coaches Matter
LHB coaches are designed to offer improved safety and passenger comfort compared with conventional ICF coaches. Their design also supports higher-speed operations and smoother train movement.
For passengers travelling on the busy Puri–Patna route, the upgrade is expected to provide a more contemporary travel experience, particularly on long-distance journeys.
Special Train Between Khurda Road and Patna Extended
In another passenger-friendly move, ECoR has extended the operation of a special train between Khurda Road and Patna Junction, taking into account increased demand and the expected rush during the upcoming festive season.
The extension covers the major festival period, including Dussehra, Diwali and Chhath Puja.
Services Extended Till November
Train No. 03230, running from Patna Junction to Khurda Road, will continue as a weekly service on Thursdays. Its operation, earlier scheduled to end on August 27, has been extended from September 3 to November 26, 2026.
In the opposite direction, Train No. 03229 will run from Khurda Road to Patna Junction every Friday. The service, earlier notified up to August 28, will now continue from September 4 to November 27, 2026.
The special train will comprise one luggage-cum-generator-cum-brake van, one Divyang-friendly coach, two general coaches, four sleeper coaches, seven AC 3-tier coaches and seven AC 3-tier economy coaches.
With both the LHB upgrade and extension of special train services, ECoR is looking to strengthen connectivity between Odisha and Bihar ahead of the busy festive travel season.
Leave a Reply