As we sit at home and wait for things to get back to normal, the Indian Railways has rolled out a prototype of the railway coach for Post-COVID travel. Designed in the Railway Coach Factory in Kapurthala, it has foot-operated amenities to minimise the chances of contracting the virus through common-use objects.
The new coach come with following highlighting features.
Hands-Free Amenities
The Indian Railways has introduced foot-operated pedals to a number of facilities that usually require the traveller to use their hands, like water-tap and soap dispensers. Even the lavatory door has a pedal to open it, as do flush valves and the latches. The compartment door has been equipped with a handle that can be operated with the use of forearms.
Copper Coating on handles
Copper has anti-microbial properties that are believed to kill any viruses or germs on its surface. Because of this, the copper handlebars and latches will reduce the chance of contracting the virus as compared to standard handlebars used till now.
Air Purification System
The air conditioning system of the coach is equipped with Plasma air purifier, which uses the ‘ionised air’ to disinfect the air and surface inside the coach.
Titanium dioxide coating
Titanium dioxide is an eco-friendly, water-based coating that kills viruses, bacteria, mould and fungal growth and, enhances indoor air quality. Considered safe and harmless for common human use, this coating will be applied to washbasins, the lavatory, seats and berths, snack tables, glass windows, floors and every other surface that comes in contact of the travellers.
After months of being in lockdown, the country is starting to resume its normal operations slowly and in a phased manner. There is no doubt that the way we travel is going to change. We are going to be more cautious of our surroundings and mindful of hygiene. But with proper precautions and safety measures, we can soon start making way for our new normal, including travel and vacations.
