Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently announced that the trial run of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Class train will begin in the next two months. This is exciting news for Indian Railways as it seeks to modernize long-distance travel. The sleeper variant is a response to public demand, and it aims to enhance overnight journeys, filling a gap currently served only by chair cars.
The Vande Bharat Sleeper is positioned as a premium semi-high-speed service, targeting medium to long-distance routes—typically between 800 and 1,200 kilometers. With a top speed of 180 km/h, it will generally operate at 160 km/h based on the track conditions.
One standout feature of the sleeper trains is their design, which includes cushioned berths and quieter cabins, making overnight travel more comfortable. There are also significant safety enhancements such as the KAVACH system, which is designed to prevent collisions, and a framework built for crash safety.
Indian Railways plans to launch about 250 units of these sleeper trains by 2029. This reflects a commitment to modernizing rail travel, specifically aimed at increasing comfort for all passengers, including those with lower incomes.
The inaugural route from Kamakhya Junction in Guwahati to Howrah Junction in Kolkata already sold out quickly, showcasing the strong demand for this new service.
Pricing is competitive, with tickets ranging from about ₹2,299 for Third AC to ₹3,640 for First AC. This positions the Vande Bharat Sleeper alongside other premium services like the Rajdhani Express, offering more choices for travelers.
Looking to the future, Vaishnaw highlighted the broader vision for Indian Railways, which includes developing rail infrastructure and improving journey quality across income groups. Over the last decade, 35,000 kilometers of new track have been added, indicating significant investments in the rail sector.
As more routes are introduced, the Vande Bharat Sleeper could reshape overnight travel in India, offering a modern and comfortable alternative that many travelers have long awaited.
This transformation in Indian Railways reflects a growing trend worldwide, where rail travel is becoming not just a means of transport but an experience enriched with comfort and safety. As we anticipate the trial runs, it’s clear the Vande Bharat Sleeper is set to lead a new generation of rail travel in India.
Source link
Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, Vande Bharat Sleeper trial run, Ashwini Vaishnaw, Indian Railways, Vande Bharat Express, sleeper Vande Bharat train, Vande Bharat sleeper launch date, Indian Railways latest news, semi high speed train India, railway infrastructure development, Amrit Bharat trains, railway modernization, passenger comfort Indian Railways, Vande Bharat train update, sleeper train trial, rail network expansion India, railway minister announcement, Indian train news, special trains summer season, rail transport India., Infrastructure News, ET Now
