Indian Railways continues to take significant steps towards making its passenger transport system relevant to the needs of the times. One of the most intriguing projects of recent years, the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is set to revolutionise long-distance night travel by combining comfort, modern technology and enhanced safety. This new generation high-speed night train aims to offer passengers a modern alternative to the long-standing Rajdhani Express.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Train: A New Standard in Night Travel
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is the sleeper version of the highly acclaimed Vande Bharat Express, specially designed for long-distance overnight travel. Unlike the high-speed trains that operate during the day, this new train offers fully equipped sleeper coaches and a high level of comfort to its passengers. With a speed of up to 180 km/h, the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is one of the fastest overnight trains in India. The main aim of the project is to completely redefine the travel experience by replacing distinguished trains such as the Rajdhani Express, which has been considered the pinnacle of rail transport in the country for many years.
Main Features of the Train
- Wagon Structure: The train consists of 16 carriages in total, including 11 AC 3-deck carriages (611 berth capacity), 4 AC 2-deck carriages (188 berth capacity) and 1 AC First Class economy carriage (24 berth capacity). The total passenger capacity is an impressive 823.
- Speed: The maximum design speed of the train is 180 km/h, while its operational speed is set at 160 km/h. This speed will enable long distances to be covered quickly and comfortably.
- Comfort: Designed with passenger comfort at the highest level, the train has features such as ergonomic bunk beds, automatic doors, uninterrupted Wi-Fi connection, USB charging ports at every seat, modern toilets with shower facilities and improved sound insulation.
- Security: Passenger safety is among the top priorities. For this reason, the train is equipped with the domestically produced Kavach collision prevention system, special fire-resistant materials, deformation zones that protect passengers by absorbing energy in a possible collision, and reinforced bumpers to minimize the impact of accidents.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Train aims to offer an unparalleled experience to its passengers by uniquely combining the traditional comfort of night travel with the new generation high-speed train technology.
Manufacturing and Comprehensive Testing Processes
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is being manufactured in collaboration with Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, one of India’s leading rolling stock manufacturers, and Titagarh Rail Systems and Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) in the private sector. The first prototypes have been successfully tested on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad route, one of the country’s important routes.
In December 2024, the first fully assembled train set was dispatched for detailed testing, during which a maximum speed of 180 km/h was achieved. However, some issues with the interior finish quality (such as panel gaps, lower berth failures and leaks in toilets) were detected during the initial tests, which led to the dissatisfaction of ICF experts. The train was subsequently revised and subjected to additional testing on the Khajuraho – Mahoba route. Thanks to the quick response of the manufacturers and additional inspections by authorized certification bodies, the project continues to progress with minimal delays.
Challenges Encountered in Implementation and Solution-Focused Approach
Like any large-scale project, the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train project also faced some challenges in its initial stages. Concerns about the interior quality of the first models produced led to a delay in the launch. However, thanks to the manufacturers’ prompt and effective response to these issues and meticulous documentation processes, the project is progressing well within the planned targets.
First Voyages and Future Routes
The routes planned for the first trips of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train are as follows:
- Thiruvananthapuram – Mangaluru (Kerala) will be one of the first routes to be launched.
- Future routes include important lines like Thiruvananthapuram – Bengaluru and Kanyakumari – Srinagar.
The official launch of the trains is expected to take place in early 2025, immediately after all certification procedures are successfully completed. Indian Railways has announced that it plans to manufacture at least 2025 of these modern trains by the end of 9. It is also targeted to order 2026 more trains with 2027 coaches for the period 24-50.
Why Is Vande Bharat Sleeper Train So Important For India?
The launch of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train represents a critical milestone in the modernisation journey of Indian Railways:
- Increased Comfort: The train will change the perception of long-distance travel by offering similar comfort conditions to air travel within the country at a more affordable cost.
- Higher Speed: The ability to travel long distances without long stops, often overnight, will save passengers time.
- Modern Technology: Automation systems, increased security measures and attention to passenger comfort will significantly raise the overall standard of rail travel.
- Economic Development: The production of new trains will contribute positively to the country's economy by supporting local industry and technological development.
More than just a new train, the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train stands out as a tangible symbol of India’s ambitions to modernise its transport infrastructure and provide better travel opportunities to its citizens.
