In a significant development for Indian Railways, the final blueprint for the country's first Vande Bharat Sleeper train has been approved. The high-profile service will connect Guwahati in Assam to Kolkata in West Bengal and is slated to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2026. This marks a major leap from the existing chair-car versions of the Vande Bharat Express, introducing overnight sleeper comfort at semi-high speeds.
The Finalised Route and Key Details
The much-anticipated sleeper variant of India's indigenous train will operate on the Guwahati to Kolkata route, significantly cutting down travel time between these two major eastern cities. The train is designed to run at a maximum speed of 160 kmph, although its average speed will be determined by track conditions. The introduction of this service is a strategic move to enhance rail connectivity to the Northeastern region, making travel faster and more comfortable.
Officials have confirmed that the fare structure has also been finalised. While exact figures are yet to be made public, it is expected that the fare will be positioned between the existing Rajdhani Express and the Vande Bharat chair car services, offering a premium yet competitive pricing model for overnight travel.
A Technological Marvel Set for 2026 Launch
The rollout of the prototype Vande Bharat Sleeper train is a critical project for Indian Railways. The train is being manufactured at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai. According to the timeline, the first prototype is expected to be ready for trials by the end of 2024 or early 2025. Following extensive testing and safety checks, the train will be officially flagged off for commercial operations in 2026 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
This sleeper version promises a host of passenger-centric features. It will include modern amenities such as enhanced safety systems, better sound insulation, personalised reading lights, and improved berth design for a superior travel experience. The focus is on providing long-distance travellers with the speed of a Vande Bharat and the comfort of a traditional overnight train.
Implications for Northeast Connectivity and Rail Travel
The launch of the Vande Bharat Sleeper on the Guwahati-Kolkata corridor carries substantial economic and symbolic importance. It is viewed as a key infrastructure project to integrate the Northeast more closely with the rest of India, promoting tourism and business travel. The reduced travel time will make the region more accessible, potentially boosting its economic prospects.
For Indian Railways, this represents the next phase in the evolution of the Vande Bharat brand. The success of the sleeper model could lead to its deployment on other popular long-distance routes across the country, gradually replacing older rolling stock. It underscores the government's push for modernising rail infrastructure with a focus on indigenous manufacturing under the 'Make in India' initiative.
As the 2026 launch date approaches, anticipation is building among travellers looking forward to experiencing this new standard in Indian rail travel. The finalisation of the route and fare brings the project one step closer to reality, setting the stage for a transformative addition to India's railway network.
