Following the successful trial runs and a major national announcement, Rajasthan's railway network is actively positioning itself to secure one or two of the new, premium Vande Bharat Sleeper trains. This move has sparked anticipation among both railway officials and daily passengers across the state.
Railway Zones Scout for Optimal Routes
The North Western Railway (NWR) and West Central Railway (WCR), which manage Rajasthan's extensive rail network, have begun internal assessments to identify routes that would maximize passenger benefits. The development comes on the heels of Indian Railways' ambitious plan to introduce 64 Vande Bharat Sleeper services across the country.
Officials highlight that the sleeper variant is specifically engineered for overnight journeys, offering significant upgrades over conventional long-distance trains. These include higher operational speeds, superior comfort levels, and modern onboard amenities, setting a new benchmark for rail travel in India.
Delhi–Ahmedabad Route Emerges as Top Contender
According to sources within the North Western Railway, the most feasible proposal currently under active consideration is a Vande Bharat Sleeper service connecting Delhi and Ahmedabad via Jaipur and Ajmer.
"This is the most feasible route at present," revealed a senior NWR officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "Jaipur would get an additional premium overnight train to Delhi and Ahmedabad. Key stations like Ajmer and Abu Road will also benefit from likely halts."
While the service would be operated by Northern Railway, it is designed to serve multiple important stations within Rajasthan, directly connecting the state's major cities with two crucial economic hubs.
Passenger Excitement and Alternative Routes
The prospect has been warmly welcomed by frequent travelers. Rakesh Sharma, a private sector employee at Jaipur Junction, shared his enthusiasm: "We travel frequently to Delhi for work and family. A Vande Bharat Sleeper would be a game-changer, saving precious time and offering far better comfort than the existing overnight options."
Beyond the Delhi-Ahmedabad link, railway authorities are also exploring other potential connections. Another route being discussed is a Vande Bharat Sleeper linking Rajasthan with Katra, the base camp for the Vaishno Devi shrine. This would cater to the substantial pilgrim traffic from the state.
The push for these trains underscores a focused effort to modernize Rajasthan's long-distance rail connectivity. If secured, the Vande Bharat Sleeper services would mark a substantial leap in overnight travel luxury and efficiency for the state's residents and visitors.
