Indian Railways is set to introduce Vande Bharat sleeper trains on nine major routes across the country, offering passengers a faster and more comfortable travel experience. The trains, which will operate at a top speed of 160 km per hour, are expected to significantly reduce travel time on key corridors.
Routes and Connectivity
The nine routes identified for the Vande Bharat sleeper trains include Delhi-Patna, Mumbai-Ahmedabad, Delhi-Varanasi, Delhi-Howrah, Mumbai-Howrah, Delhi-Bengaluru, Mumbai-Chennai, Delhi-Chennai, and Howrah-Chennai. These routes were selected based on high passenger demand and the potential for time savings.
Speed and Travel Time Reduction
With a maximum speed of 160 kmph, the Vande Bharat sleeper trains will cut travel time by up to 30% compared to conventional trains. For instance, the Delhi-Patna journey, which currently takes around 11-12 hours, is expected to be completed in about 8 hours. The Mumbai-Ahmedabad route, which takes 6-7 hours now, will be covered in roughly 4.5 hours.
Modern Amenities and Features
The sleeper trains will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including reclining seats, individual reading lights, mobile charging points, and improved suspension for a smoother ride. Each coach will have CCTV cameras, fire detection systems, and GPS-based passenger information systems. The trains will also feature automatic doors and bio-vacuum toilets.
Manufacturing and Timeline
The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai is manufacturing the sleeper variants. According to a railway official, the first prototype is expected to be ready by mid-2026, with commercial operations likely to begin by the end of 2026. The trains will have 16 coaches, including 11 sleeper coaches, 2 AC chair car coaches, and 2 executive chair car coaches.
Impact on Travel
"The introduction of Vande Bharat sleeper trains will revolutionize overnight travel in India," said a senior railway ministry official. "Passengers can expect a premium experience at affordable prices." The fares are expected to be comparable to existing Rajdhani Express trains, making them accessible to a wide range of travelers.
Future Expansion
Indian Railways plans to eventually introduce sleeper trains on more routes based on demand and infrastructure readiness. The success of the initial nine routes will determine the pace of expansion. The Vande Bharat sleeper trains are part of the government's broader push to modernize the railway network and enhance passenger comfort.
