Indian Railways Unveils New 24-Coach Vande Bharat Sleeper Train with Pantry Car, Outshining Rajdhani Express Features
After successfully launching 16-coach Vande Bharat sleeper trains, Indian Railways is set to introduce a new 24-coach variant aimed at enhancing long-distance overnight travel. The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai will manufacture 50 of these 24-coach sleeper trains. Indian Railways plans to roll out over 200 Vande Bharat sleeper trains in the coming years, with three major manufacturing projects currently in progress.
BEML, in collaboration with ICF, is producing 10 sleeper trainsets, while a joint venture between India and Russia, Kinet, has been tasked with manufacturing another 120. Additionally, a consortium of Titagarh and BHEL will produce 80 Vande Bharat sleeper trains. ICF is also developing its own sleeper version.
24-Coach Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Soon
Sources indicate that the designs for the new 24-coach train are nearing completion, with finalization expected within a month. The rollout is targeted for the first half of 2027, specifically aiming for June. This new variant will include a pantry car, a feature not present in the existing sleeper designs, and will also increase the number of toilets available. ICF has stated that this will be one of the longest sleeper trains produced in India.
The design improvements will focus on enhancing passenger comfort and convenience. The interiors are being upgraded, and the pantry car will allow food to be heated and served onboard.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Features
The current prototypes consist of 16 passenger coaches, including 11 AC 3-tier, four AC 2-tier, and one AC First Class coach. The train is designed to operate at a speed of 160 kmph, with a testing speed of 180 kmph, although many sections of the Indian Railways network cannot support such speeds.
Passenger comfort is a priority, with cushioned berths inspired by European trains and redesigned access to upper berths. The train will feature dedicated night lighting, an integrated announcement system, CCTV cameras, and modular pantry units. Modern bio-vacuum toilets will be installed, including facilities for disabled passengers and a baby-care station. The AC First Class coach will also provide shower facilities with hot water.
Safety features include the indigenous KAVACH anti-collision system and regenerative braking technology for energy efficiency. Coaches will have automatic interconnecting doors and sealed gangways to maintain clean air and regulate temperature. Each coach will be equipped with individual reading lights, charging points, and refreshment tables. A Centralised Coach Monitoring System will be installed, allowing passengers to communicate with the driver through an emergency communication system.
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