Delhi is set to mark another milestone in modern railway infrastructure as Indian Railways prepares to introduce its first-ever Sleeper Vande Bharat Express, connecting the capital to Patna via Prayagraj. The service, expected to begin before Diwali, is designed to significantly cut travel time and set a new benchmark in overnight rail journeys.
The sleeper variant of the Vande Bharat is being positioned as a cost-effective yet premium alternative to air travel and the long-trusted Rajdhani Express. While the Rajdhani takes close to 23 hours on the Delhi-Patna stretch, the Vande Bharat Sleeper will cover the distance in just over 11 hours, marking a decisive leap in efficiency for long-distance rail travel.Officials confirmed that the train has already undergone trial runs and is currently stationed in Delhi for final technical checks.
Designed and manufactured using advanced Integral Coach Factory technology by BEML, the train will run at speeds of up to 180 km/h. The coaches are equipped with state-of-the-art safety systems, including CCTV surveillance, automatic fire detection, LED information panels, and automated doors. Each detail is engineered to replicate the standards of aviation while delivering the comfort of rail.
The sleeper variant is expected to widen the reach of the Vande Bharat network, which has so far been dominated by chair car models catering to daytime travellers. By introducing sleeper facilities, Indian Railways is tapping into the large overnight travel market in northern and eastern India. The ticket pricing, though set to be 10–15 per cent higher than Rajdhani fares, is aimed at striking a balance between affordability and premium experience.
Experts say this strategic move will not only improve passenger convenience but also support the broader sustainability agenda by nudging more travellers towards rail over short-haul flights. Railways remain among the most energy-efficient modes of transport, and with Vande Bharat trains built to consume less energy and reduce carbon footprint, the sleeper variant strengthens India’s net-zero urban mobility goals.The launch is also a signal of Indian Railways’ intent to modernise its fleet further. Alongside the sleeper variant, officials have indicated plans to upgrade existing Vande Bharat chair car trains with additional coaches to meet rising demand across seven active routes.
For millions of passengers, particularly those travelling between Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar during festival seasons, the new train is expected to be a game-changer. Not only will it provide faster connections, but it will also do so with the comfort, speed, and safety that Indian Railways wants to position as the new standard in overnight travel.The Delhi-Patna Vande Bharat Sleeper service, thus, represents more than just a new train; it reflects a larger shift towards sustainable, high-speed, and people-friendly urban mobility for the future.
Delhi to Patna Vande Bharat Sleeper train begins service before Diwali
