AKIPRESS.COM - The Indian Railways are set to launch Humsafar trains next month, says Sify.com.

The trains will consist of only three-tier air-conditioned coaches. The first of these is likely to be introduced on the New Delhi – Gorakhpur route. The coaches in these trains will include features such as GPS-based passenger information system, integrated braille displays, CCTVs, charging points for laptops and mobile phones, and fire and smoke detection and suppression mechanisms.

Besides, Humsafar trains will sport a futuristic look, with improved aesthetics, besides new color schemes for coaches (exterior and interior) and the use of vinyl sheets akin to those in Maharaja Express coaches.

According to a senior railway official, the special trains will be introduced as overnight inter-city services on high-demand routes. Besides, passengers on-board these trains would have access to additional facilities which are otherwise not available in normal three-tier air-conditioned coaches.

Earlier in the year, India's Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu had announced the introduction of Humsafar, a special train, consisting of three-tier air-conditioned coaches, while presenting the Rail Budget in parliament.

"Humsafar would be fully air-conditioned third AC service with an optional service for meals," he had announced in February.

Offering a range of facilities, the tickets for Humsafar trains are expected to be 20 percent more than the normal Express and Mail services.