New Delhi Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains Get Redesigned Upper Berths
New Delhi: India’s ambitious Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are set to redefine long-distance travel with redesigned upper berths that are more comfortable and accessible for passengers of all age groups. Officials said the new design incorporates passenger feedback to enhance convenience and overall travel experience.
A senior project official explained that the previous perception of upper berths being uncomfortable and difficult to access guided the ergonomic redesign. The new configuration includes improved ladders and enhanced support features, ensuring ease of use for children, seniors, and differently-abled travellers. The first trains incorporating these changes are expected to be delivered next year, marking a significant step forward in passenger-focused rail travel.
Experts highlighted that the design upgrades reflect India’s broader vision of modernising railway infrastructure and making high-speed travel more inclusive. The project’s aim is to align Vande Bharat Sleeper services with global standards in comfort, efficiency, and accessibility while maintaining the environmental advantages of electrified train travel.The trains are being manufactured by Kinet Railway Solutions, a joint venture between Russia’s leading rolling stock manufacturer and Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), a public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Railways. The venture is responsible for designing, producing, and maintaining 1,920 sleeper coaches across 120 trainsets over the next 35 years, ensuring long-term operational reliability.
Officials noted that these changes are part of a broader strategy to modernise India’s rail network. Over the past 11 years, the country has expanded its railway infrastructure by 35,000 kilometres of tracks, electrifying 46,000 kilometres, and producing 40,000 new coaches. This modernisation drive aims to support sustainable, equitable, and eco-friendly rail travel, while providing high-speed and comfortable journeys across long distances.The Vande Bharat Sleeper project also emphasises passenger-centric innovation integrating comfort, accessibility, and safety into every aspect of design. By focusing on these elements, Indian Railways is addressing both functional and experiential gaps, ensuring travellers enjoy a premium journey experience while maintaining cost efficiency and environmental responsibility.Officials anticipate that the introduction of these sleeper coaches will further elevate India’s domestic rail travel standards, making long-distance journeys more convenient and inclusive for all passengers. This approach exemplifies a commitment to human-centric design and positions India as a leader in modern, sustainable railway solutions.
