Mumbai can soon anticipate a significant reduction in journey time, with the introduction of a new sleeper Vande Bharat Express.
This advanced train promises to cover the 1350 km distance in a mere 10 hours, a substantial saving compared to the current travel time of approximately 16 hours on existing rail services. This development marks a significant leap in intercity connectivity and promises to enhance travel convenience for both business and leisure travellers. The Railway Board has reportedly received proposals for the operation of two new Vande Bharat trains, including this sleeper service connecting Aligarh to Mumbai via Agra, and an express service linking Hazrat Nizamuddin to Indore. Additionally, a proposal for an express Vande Bharat connecting Agra to Ayodhya is also under consideration. Operations for these new services are expected to commence shortly, pending final approval from the Railway Board. The proposed route for the Aligarh-Mumbai sleeper Vande Bharat includes key stoppages at Aligarh, Agra, Gwalior, Jhansi, Bina, Bhopal, Itarsi, Khandwa, Jalgaon, Manmad, and Mumbai, ensuring connectivity to several important urban centres along the way.
The sleeper Vande Bharat rake designated for the Aligarh-Mumbai route will comprise a total of 16 coaches, designed for comfortable overnight travel. The configuration includes 11 coaches of AC III tier, catering to a significant portion of passengers, along with four coaches of AC II tier for enhanced comfort. For premium travel, the train will also feature one AC First Class coach. With a total capacity to accommodate 824 passengers, this state-of-the-art train will have the capability to operate at a speed of 130 km per hour, ensuring swift and efficient travel between the major urban hubs. The features of the sleeper Vande Bharat have been meticulously designed to provide a comfortable and safe travel experience. Cushioned berths will ensure a restful journey for overnight passengers. Safety features include advanced crash buffers, deformation tubes to absorb impact in case of collisions, and a fire barrier wall to enhance passenger safety. Modern amenities such as convenient charging points for electronic devices and fully-automated doors for enhanced safety and ease of movement will be available throughout the train. Onboard Wi-fi connectivity will further enhance the passenger experience, allowing travellers to stay connected throughout their journey.
While the official ticket prices are yet to be formally announced, indicative figures suggest that the approximate fares will be ₹2,000 for AC 3-Tier, ₹2,500 for AC 2-Tier, and ₹3,000 for AC First Class. These expected price points position the Vande Bharat sleeper as a potentially competitive option for travellers seeking a faster and more comfortable alternative to existing train services. The introduction of this high-speed sleeper train on the Agra-Mumbai route aligns with the broader vision of Indian Railways to modernise its infrastructure and enhance passenger experience. By significantly reducing travel time and offering modern amenities, the Vande Bharat sleeper is expected to not only improve connectivity between these two major cities but also contribute to a more efficient and sustainable transportation network, encouraging a shift towards rail travel for long-distance journeys. This development holds the potential to boost economic activity and facilitate smoother cultural exchange between the northern and western regions of India.
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