Chennai’s Integral Coach Factory is at the forefront of a monumental expansion in India’s railway network, with ten advanced Vande Bharat Sleeper trains currently in production and a further fifty rakes earmarked for manufacturing. This ambitious rollout signifies a pivotal stride towards redefining long-distance travel, offering a premium experience coupled with cutting-edge sustainable technologies. The initiative is set to transform inter-city connectivity, aligning seamlessly with the nation’s vision for eco-friendly, equitable, and zero net carbon urban ecosystems.
The strategic push to deploy these semi-high-speed sleeper variants underscores a commitment to elevate passenger comfort and efficiency across long and medium-distance routes. Beyond the initial sixty units taking shape, a substantial order for two hundred additional Vande Bharat Sleeper rakes has been awarded to technology partners, signalling a widespread modernisation drive. This continuous design and manufacturing process by the Indian Railways is dynamically adapting to operational imperatives and burgeoning traffic requirements, ensuring a robust and responsive rail infrastructure for the populace.
These next-generation sleeper trains are meticulously engineered to deliver a superior journey, boasting sixteen fully air-conditioned coaches, comprising eleven AC 3-tier, four AC 2-tier, and one AC First Class. Each coach integrates state-of-the-art amenities crucial for a sustainable and comfortable commute. Features like bio-vacuum toilets and regenerative braking systems are not merely conveniences but fundamental components of an eco-conscious design, significantly reducing the environmental footprint and promoting energy efficiency. This focus on sustainable technology is vital for building a greener future for Indian cities.
Beyond environmental considerations, the Vande Bharat Sleeper trains champion inclusivity and safety. They are equipped with the KAVACH Automatic Train Protection system and comply with EN-45545 HL3 fire safety standards, ensuring paramount passenger security. Crucially, the thoughtful design incorporates accommodation and accessible toilets for Passengers with Restricted Mobility (PRM) in the driving coaches, fostering an equitable travel experience for all citizens. Automatic plug doors, fully sealed wider gangways, ergonomic ladders for upper berths, and CCTV surveillance further enhance safety, accessibility, and gender-neutral comfort, ensuring a seamless journey for every passenger. This systematic integration of advanced features marks a significant leap towards developing smart, connected, and truly equitable urban corridors.
This extensive deployment of modern, technologically advanced Vande Bharat Sleeper trains represents more than just an upgrade to India’s rail fleet; it is a foundational pillar in building more sustainable, interconnected, and accessible cities. By prioritising energy efficiency, passenger safety, and universal design, these trains are poised to catalyse socio-economic development while simultaneously contributing to the nation’s ambitious climate goals, ultimately fostering a resilient and inclusive future.
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