India’s first semi-high speed train Tejas Express will soon get new aerodynamic WAP5 locomotive which can achieve top speed quickly than the normal WAP5 locomotive. The new aerodynamic locomotive manufactured by Chittaranjan Locomotive Works (CLW) will be used in push-pull mode for passenger trains in Indian Railways.
Comparing to the normal WAP5 locomotive, the new aerodynamic WAP5 will have limited air-drag, improved aerodynamic-efficiency, more stability while cruising at 160-200 km/h and energy efficient. The LHB coaches used in Tejas Express can easily achieve 200 km/h but it is resisted to 130 km/h due to major reasons like quality of tracks and safety. Indian Railways also have locomotives which can also easily achieve 160 Km/h. it will take a long time to make the track fit to travel at 160 km/h. Due to this reason, Indian Railways planned to modify the WAP5 Locomotive and use push-pull technology for passenger trains to improve its acceleration and reduce travel time.
