Enhanced Comfort on Howrah-New Delhi Rajdhani Express
Passengers traveling in First AC on the Howrah-New Delhi Rajdhani Express will now experience an elevated level of comfort. Eastern Railway has introduced premium floral comforters, replacing the traditional blankets previously provided in these coaches. This upgrade, which commenced on October 11, 2026, is timed to enhance the travel experience for the upcoming Durga Puja festive season.
The initiative is a key part of Eastern Railway's ongoing commitment to improving onboard amenities and the overall passenger journey on this significant route.
Prioritizing Passenger Hygiene
A primary driver behind the introduction of the new floral comforters is to address long-standing hygiene concerns associated with train bedding. Eastern Railway has confirmed that these new comforters will undergo thorough washing and sanitization after every single round trip. This rigorous cleaning protocol ensures that each passenger receives fresh, clean bedding, significantly enhancing their travel experience.
This move follows earlier efforts by the Ministry of Railways to tackle hygiene issues concerning blankets in AC coaches. Previously, standard blankets were typically cleaned only once or twice a month, unlike bed sheets and pillow covers, which are washed after every journey. The new comforter system directly responds to these concerns, providing a more hygienic solution for long-distance rail travel.
A Legacy of Indian Rail Travel
The Howrah-New Delhi Rajdhani Express, often referred to as the Kolkata Rajdhani Express, holds a special place in Indian railway history. It was the nation's inaugural Rajdhani Express, commencing its maiden journey on March 3, 1969, connecting Kolkata with the capital city, New Delhi.
Initially, the train comprised nine vacuum-braked coaches, including two power cars, five AC chair cars, one AC dining car, and one First AC coach. Over the decades, the service has undergone numerous modernizations. Today, it operates with Linke-Hofmann-Busch (LHB) coaches, known for their enhanced safety and comfort features. The current composition includes 22 LHB coaches, featuring two First AC coaches, six AC 2-tier coaches, eleven AC 3-tier coaches, a pantry car, and two power cars-cum-luggage vans. The train operates via Gaya (12301/12302) and via Patna (12305/12306) on different schedules.