Indian Railways is poised to make a significant leap in passenger comfort with the imminent launch of its first Vande Bharat sleeper train. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to flag off this revolutionary new service this week, marking a milestone in India's rail modernization efforts.
Launch Details and Route Information
The inaugural Vande Bharat sleeper train will operate between Howrah and Kamakhya (Guwahati), covering a distance of 958 kilometers. This fully air-conditioned trainset has been developed in-house by Indian Railways specifically for overnight travel and long-distance routes spanning 1,200 to 1,500 kilometers, catering to passengers who travel across states during night hours.
Comprehensive Fare Structure
Ahead of the much-anticipated launch, Indian Railways has announced detailed fare structures for the Vande Bharat sleeper service. The train will feature 11 AC-3 tier coaches, 4 AC-2 tier coaches, and one AC First coach, accommodating a total of 823 passengers.
Howrah to Guwahati Fares
- AC-3 Tier: ₹2,299 plus 5% GST
- AC-2 Tier: ₹2,970 plus 5% GST
- First AC: ₹3,640 plus 5% GST
Other Key Route Fares
For travel from Howrah to New Jalpaiguri, AC-3 tier tickets will cost ₹1,334, while AC-2 tier will be ₹1,724 and First AC ₹2,113. From Howrah to Malda Town, fares are set at ₹960 for AC-3 tier, ₹1,240 for AC-2 tier, and ₹1,520 for First AC.
Between Kamakhya and Malda Town, fares have been fixed at ₹1,522 for AC-3 tier, ₹1,965 for AC-2 tier, and ₹2,409 for First AC. For Kamakhya to New Jalpaiguri travel, AC-3 tier will cost ₹962, AC-2 tier ₹1,243, and First AC ₹1,524.
Indian Railways has established a minimum chargeable distance of 400 kilometers for fare calculation on the Vande Bharat sleeper service.
Advanced Technical Features and Performance
During test runs on the Kota–Nagda section, the Vande Bharat sleeper achieved its designed top speed of 180 kmph. A remarkable stability demonstration showed glasses filled with water remaining steady without spilling even at speeds exceeding 180 kmph. While designed for semi-high-speed operations up to 160 kmph in regular service, actual operating speeds will depend on track conditions across different network sections.
Passenger Amenities and Comfort Features
The sleeper version serves as the long-haul, overnight counterpart to existing Vande Bharat chair car services. Drawing inspiration from European rail design, the coaches feature cushioned berths for enhanced comfort and redesigned access to upper berths for easier movement.
Passenger amenities include:
- Soft night lighting systems
- Integrated audio-visual passenger information displays
- CCTV surveillance throughout the train
- Modular pantry units for efficient food service
- Aircraft-style bio-vacuum toilets
- Special facilities for persons with disabilities
- Baby care areas
- Shower units with hot water in first-class coaches
Safety and Efficiency Systems
The train incorporates indigenous KAVACH anti-collision technology and regenerative braking systems to enhance energy efficiency, similar to existing Vande Bharat chair car trains. Additional features include sealed gangways and automatic inter-coach doors that maintain air quality and cabin temperature.
Passenger convenience features encompass personal reading lights, charging points at every berth, foldable snack tables, and interiors finished with GFRP panels. Train doors will open automatically at designated stations, while a centralized coach monitoring system and emergency communication facilities allow passengers to directly contact the locomotive pilot when necessary.
This launch represents a significant advancement in India's rail infrastructure, combining speed, comfort, and safety in a package designed specifically for the needs of long-distance overnight travelers.
