Vande Bharat Sleeper Train: Key Issues Highlighted by Railway Ministry
Indian Railways is set to introduce the first Vande Bharat sleeper trains in the coming months, promising a new level of comfort for long-distance travelers. However, the Ministry of Railways has raised concerns about the quality of furnishings and craftsmanship in these new trainsets. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that two rakes of the sleeper trains will be launched simultaneously, but the Railway Board has identified several deficiencies that need to be addressed before the official rollout.
Concerns Over Quality and Craftsmanship
The Railway Board has communicated various issues regarding the Vande Bharat sleeper trains in a recent letter to the Director General of the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and General Managers across railway zones. The report highlights problems related to furnishings and workmanship, including sharp edges in the berthing areas, inadequate window curtain handles, and cleaning challenges posed by pigeon pockets between berth connectors. The Board has stressed the need for immediate remedial actions for the current rake and has called for design enhancements for future models.
In addition to these quality concerns, the Ministry of Railways has mandated compliance with RDSO-specified conditions for operations at speeds of up to 160 km/h. The authorization process for the new train designs involves obtaining final approval from the Central Commission of Railway Safety (CCRS), which then forwards the matter to the Railway Ministry for operational clearance. The RDSO submitted its updated compliance report on September 1, 2025, but the route for the Vande Bharat sleeper train has yet to be finalized.
Safety Protocols and Operational Readiness
The Ministry has emphasized the importance of adhering to several safety protocols before the launch of the Vande Bharat sleeper trains. Key requirements include the installation of the Kavach 4.0 system, which enhances train safety, and ensuring reliable communication between loco pilots, train managers, and station masters. Additionally, proper maintenance of the brake systems is crucial for operational safety.
Regional divisions have been instructed to train engine drivers for emergency situations, such as uncoupling semi-permanent couplers within 15 minutes. The Ministry has also specified that essential tools must be included in the equipment sets for drivers and guards. To ensure passenger comfort, the Ministry has directed that suitable temperature settings be maintained inside the coaches, taking into account ambient conditions and the frequent opening and closing of doors.
Passenger Safety and Communication
To enhance passenger safety during travel, the Ministry has mandated regular announcements through the public address system. These announcements will inform all non-passengers to disembark before the train departs. Furthermore, pre-recorded safety messages will be broadcast in three languages—regional, Hindi, and English—to educate passengers on safety norms.
The Ministry has also called for the assignment of skilled personnel dedicated to the maintenance of the Vande Bharat sleeper trainsets. Ensuring that sufficient spare parts and consumables are readily available is essential for the smooth operation of these trains. The focus on passenger safety and comfort reflects the Indian Railways’ commitment to providing a premium travel experience that surpasses existing services like the Rajdhani Express.
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