India’s Railways Unveils Plans for 260 World-Class Vande Bharat Sleeper Rakes Following Successful Launch of Sleeper Version
Indian Railways has launched its first pair of Vande Bharat sleeper trains, connecting Guwahati and Howrah. This initiative aims to enhance overnight travel options in India, following the successful introduction of the Vande Bharat Express in 2019. A second pair of sleeper trains is currently undergoing trials and is expected to operate between Bengaluru and Mumbai, pending official confirmation.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Project
The initial batch of ten Vande Bharat sleeper trains is being manufactured by BEML, featuring 16-car rakes. An additional 50 trains will be produced by ICF Chennai, designed with 24 coaches to facilitate longer overnight journeys, complete with pantry cars. ICF General Manager Manish Agarwal confirmed that production drawings for the new 24-car sleeper trains have been finalized and manufacturing will commence shortly.
Indian Railways has awarded a contract for 200 Vande Bharat sleeper trains to two consortiums. Kinet will produce 120 trains, while the Titagarh-BHEL joint venture will manufacture 80 rakes. An Indo-Russian joint venture, Kinet Railway Solutions Ltd, has been established to produce the 120 trainsets at the Marathwada factory in Maharashtra. The first prototype is expected to be completed by March 31 next year, ahead of the original June 2026 deadline.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Features
The Vande Bharat sleeper trains are designed for a maximum speed of 180 km/h, with an operational speed of 160 km/h, depending on the route. Unlike traditional trains that depend on a locomotive, these sleeper trains utilize distributed power, allowing for faster acceleration and braking. This design aims to reduce travel times significantly.
The prototype consists of 16 coaches, including 11 AC 3-tier, four AC 2-tier, and one AC First Class coach. Key features include cushioned berths, improved access to upper berths, night lighting, and integrated announcement systems. Onboard facilities also include CCTV surveillance, modular pantry units, and aircraft-style bio-vacuum toilets. The AC First Class coaches are equipped with shower facilities and hot water. Additionally, the trains incorporate KAVACH anti-collision technology and a regenerative braking system for enhanced safety and energy efficiency.
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