Indian Railways is poised to roll out the country’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper train in September, marking a transformative step in overnight rail travel. The new sleeper variant of the popular Vande Bharat series is being manufactured by BEML, incorporating advanced technology from the Integral Coach Factory (ICF). Once launched, the new train will elevate the passenger experience on long-distance routes with a blend of speed, comfort and modern amenities.
The Railway Ministry has confirmed that the Vande Bharat Sleeper train is in the final stages of readiness and is expected to be operational within the next few weeks. Although the exact route has not been finalised, officials from the Railway Board have indicated that the decision will be driven by demand, connectivity importance, and operational viability. Rail authorities are looking at pairing high-traffic routes with poor overnight infrastructure to maximise the train’s utility. The train has been designed to operate at a top speed of 180 kmph, catering to India’s rapidly evolving demand for high-speed travel. With 16 coaches configured into three air-conditioned classes—AC First Class, AC 2-Tier and AC 3-Tier—the train can accommodate up to 1,128 passengers. Experts suggest that the introduction of this sleeper version is a strategic response to the rising demand for faster overnight connectivity, especially for business and intercity travel.
From a design standpoint, the Vande Bharat Sleeper will offer several passenger-centric features that reflect global standards. These include integrated reading lights with USB charging ports, digital display panels, real-time passenger information systems, and public announcement systems. Enhanced security features such as onboard surveillance cameras and modular pantry units are also part of the offering. Accessibility has also been prioritised, with specially designed berths and toilets for differently-abled passengers. In a first, the AC First Class cabins will be equipped with hot water showers, underscoring a renewed focus on travel comfort. Officials said that this rollout is part of a broader strategy to overhaul Indian Railways’ passenger services. Recent additions to the network, such as the Amrit Bharat and Namo Bharat trains, have already begun modernising the national rail grid. With the Vande Bharat Sleeper, the ministry aims to offer not just speed but also a premium overnight experience.
While the sleeper train is being closely monitored by engineers for technical trials, passenger safety and operational efficiency remain key concerns ahead of the public launch. Once launched, the sleeper variant could serve as a new benchmark for semi-high-speed intercity overnight travel in India.
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