Bhopal Lucknow Vande Bharat Sleeper To Launch Soon
Bhopal and Lucknow are set to be connected by a high-speed Vande Bharat Sleeper Express, promising passengers a faster and more comfortable journey. Expected to be launched later this year, the train will reduce travel time to nearly half, cutting the current 10–12 hour journey to about six to eight hours.
According to railway officials, the train will be equipped with 20 sleeper coaches, unlike most Vande Bharat services that currently operate with seating arrangements. The decision to expand from the earlier proposed 16 coaches to 20 was taken after reviewing expected passenger demand and to ensure adequate capacity during peak travel seasons. Officials added that the notification detailing schedules, stops, and fare structures is likely to be issued by the end of the month.
The service, designed to enhance long-distance intercity travel, has been delayed due to technical preparations at Rani Kamlapati station, where the pit lines used for train maintenance are under expansion. At present, the station has two lines which are insufficient to service the incoming rakes. A new pit line is under construction to address this gap and once ready, the first trainset will be stationed in Bhopal.
Railway experts highlight that the new sleeper service is part of Indian Railways’ broader push towards energy-efficient and environmentally friendly operations. The Vande Bharat series already incorporates regenerative braking technology, lightweight materials to reduce energy consumption, and aerodynamic design to improve efficiency. The sleeper version, officials note, has been developed to cater to overnight and long-distance commuters, providing both convenience and sustainability. The Bhopal–Lucknow corridor is among the busiest routes connecting central India to the northern region. The introduction of this service is expected to not only ease congestion on existing trains but also encourage more passengers to shift from road to rail, cutting down carbon emissions. The modern rakes will feature advanced air-conditioning, noise reduction, and improved passenger amenities, reflecting Indian Railways’ ambition to align with global standards of green mobility.
Transport analysts view this expansion of the Vande Bharat fleet as a step towards building sustainable cities and reducing regional travel times. With rail travel being significantly more energy-efficient than aviation or long-haul road journeys, the sleeper express is expected to contribute positively to India’s carbon-neutral transport goals. As the railways continue to invest in next-generation infrastructure, the Bhopal–Lucknow Vande Bharat Sleeper Express stands as a symbolic milestone, blending speed, sustainability, and comfort. The service is anticipated to strengthen economic and cultural links between the two state capitals while promoting eco-friendly mobility for a rapidly urbanising India.
