Launch of Second Vande Bharat Sleeper Train This Month to Enhance Connectivity Between Bengaluru and Mumbai
Indian Railways is set to launch its second Vande Bharat sleeper train, connecting KSR Bengaluru and Mumbai CSMT. Following the introduction of the first sleeper service between Guwahati and Howrah earlier this year, the Railway Board is expected to issue a notification for this new route soon. The train is anticipated to be inaugurated later this month, significantly reducing travel time between the technology hub of Bengaluru and the financial capital of Mumbai.
Mumbai-Bengaluru Vande Bharat Sleeper: Expected Travel Time
The new Vande Bharat sleeper train will operate six days a week in each direction, completing the journey in under 16 hours. Currently, the Udyan Express is the only direct daily train between the two cities, taking approximately 24 hours. Tentative schedules indicate that the train will depart KSR Bengaluru at 10 PM, arriving in Mumbai at 1:50 PM the next day. The return trip is expected to leave Mumbai at 10:30 PM, reaching Bengaluru at 1:50 PM the following day. Scheduled stops will include Anantapur, Guntakal, Raichur, Kalaburagi, Solapur, and Kalyan.
Passengers have sought faster rail connectivity between Bengaluru and Mumbai for over 30 years. Despite previous commitments, travel times have remained lengthy. The introduction of the Vande Bharat sleeper service aims to meet this demand and enhance connectivity between the two major cities.
What Makes Vande Bharat Sleeper Special?
The Vande Bharat sleeper train features 16 passenger coaches, including 11 AC 3-tier, four AC 2-tier, and one AC First Class coach. Designed for speeds up to 160 kmph, with a testing speed of 180 kmph, it falls into the semi-high-speed category. However, many sections of the Indian Railways network are not equipped for such speeds.
The sleeper coaches incorporate design elements from European trains, offering cushioned berths for enhanced comfort. Modifications to the upper berths facilitate easier access for passengers. Amenities include dedicated night lights, integrated public announcement systems, CCTV cameras, and modular pantry units. Modern bio-vacuum toilets, similar to those in aircraft, are installed, along with a separate toilet for disabled passengers that includes a baby care station. AC First Class passengers will also have access to shower facilities with hot water.
Safety features include the indigenous KAVACH anti-collision system and regenerative braking technology for energy efficiency. The train is equipped with automatic interconnecting doors and sealed gangways to maintain air quality and temperature control. Each coach offers individual reading lights, charging points, and refreshment tables, with interiors made from GFRP panels. The doors are designed to open automatically at designated stations, and a Centralised Coach Monitoring System allows for emergency communication with the driver.
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