Indian Railways, the nation is poised to introduce its first-ever AC sleeper Vande Bharat Express, with operations slated to commence from Uttar Pradesh.
This innovative service will establish a crucial high-speed connection between Lucknow and Mumbai, promising a significant upgrade in passenger comfort and travel efficiency. With the timetable expected to be released in June and services likely to begin in July, this initiative is strategically designed to address the persistent shortage of seats on existing routes while offering a faster and more comfortable journey, aligning with the broader vision of modern, accessible, and sustainable urban and inter-city connectivity.
The introduction of the AC sleeper Vande Bharat Express marks a pivotal evolution in India’s railway infrastructure. While the standard Vande Bharat trains have revolutionised day travel with their speed and modern amenities, the sleeper variant will extend these benefits to overnight journeys, catering to long-distance commuters between Uttar Pradesh and Mumbai. This is particularly significant given the high demand on this busy corridor, where current services often struggle to meet passenger needs, leading to limited seat availability and prolonged travel durations. The new service is set to provide a much-needed alternative, enhancing overall travel experience and reducing transit times.
The finalisation of the route for this pioneering train followed an extensive six-month survey conducted by railway officials. Initial proposals had explored various alignments, including routes via Kanpur, Mathura, and Agra, as well as an alternative through Aonla, Chandausi, Moradabad, and Ghaziabad. After thorough evaluation, the route from Lucknow to Mumbai via Bareilly Junction was ultimately selected. The finalised itinerary will see the train traversing through key stations including Hardoi, Shahjahanpur, Bareilly Junction, Rampur, Moradabad, Ghaziabad, Hazrat Nizamuddin, and Agra, before its final destination in Mumbai. This strategic route ensures broad regional coverage and connectivity for a significant population segment.
Railway sources have confirmed that the new sleeper Vande Bharat Express will comprise 20 coaches, reflecting a substantial passenger capacity. The composition will include a mix of AC First Class, AC 2-Tier, and AC 3-Tier coaches, along with two SLR (Seating-cum-Luggage Rake) coaches, offering a total passenger capacity of approximately 1,200. The train is planned to operate four days a week, a frequency designed to meet the high demand on this corridor. Preparations for its July launch are well underway, with the final timetable being meticulously crafted to optimise travel times and convenience.
Uttar Pradesh holds a unique distinction in the Vande Bharat narrative, having been the starting point for the country’s very first Vande Bharat Express, which currently operates between Varanasi and New Delhi. This successful precedent has already established the Vande Bharat brand for its speed and modern facilities, garnering significant popularity. The introduction of the sleeper variant on the Lucknow-Mumbai route signifies a progressive expansion of this high-speed network. Railway officials have stated that the new sleeper Vande Bharat Express is poised to offer a journey notably faster than both the existing Rajdhani and Shatabdi Express trains. By combining enhanced speed with superior comfort and convenience, this new service is set to redefine the inter-city travel experience, contributing to a more connected, efficient, and economically vibrant India.
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