Speaking after the inspection, Vaishnaw said the Vande Bharat sleeper train is ready for inauguration following the mandatory inspection and certification by the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS). He confirmed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the service very soon. Two train rakes are already being shifted to Guwahati and Kolkata for operational readiness.

Highlighting passenger-friendly features, the minister said the train offers ergonomically designed stairs, adjustable light shades, smart tray holders, and improved seating. Moreover, Braille signage appears throughout the coaches, including on seat numbers, to support visually impaired passengers.

Importantly, the Vande Bharat sleeper train includes advanced safety systems. These include CCTV surveillance and the Kavach automatic train protection system. Kavach prevents overspeeding, signal violations, and collisions through automatic braking.

Vaishnaw added that the train reflects Prime Minister Modi’s vision to modernise Indian Railways. He also assured that fares remain affordable to support middle-class and low-income travellers.

Earlier, Indian Railways completed a successful high-speed trial on the Kota–Nagda section. During the test, the train reached 180 kmph and met all safety and performance benchmarks.

The post Vande Bharat sleeper train inspected by Ashwini Vaishnaw appeared first on India Podcast.

Unlike the existing Vande Bharat chair car trains that cater mainly to short and medium distances, the sleeper variant has been designed specifically for overnight and long-haul journeys. The train will consist of 16 coaches and have a total passenger capacity of 823.

According to railway officials, the rake will include 11 AC three-tier coaches, four AC two-tier coaches, and one first-class AC coach, offering multiple travel options for passengers. The train has a design speed of up to 180 kmph, although the actual operating speed will depend on track conditions and safety norms.

The Guwahati–Kolkata corridor is considered a key route, providing vital connectivity between the Northeastern states and eastern India. Officials believe the introduction of a semi-high-speed sleeper service on this route will significantly improve travel comfort while also reducing journey time compared to conventional express trains.

The Vande Bharat sleeper train is expected to feature modern safety systems, improved suspension, automatic doors, enhanced lighting, and upgraded passenger amenities, in line with Indian Railways’ ongoing modernisation drive. The new service is also seen as a boost to tourism, business travel, and regional connectivity.

Railway authorities said the launch is part of a broader plan to roll out Vande Bharat sleeper services on other high-demand long-distance routes across the country in the coming months.

The post Vande Bharat Sleeper Train to Run Between Guwahati and Kolkata appeared first on India Podcast.

The train will have 16 coaches and 827 berths. It includes 11 third AC coaches, 4 second AC coaches, and 1 first AC coach. The comfortable design aims to give passengers a smooth overnight journey. The sleeper service will run six days a week, similar to the current Vande Bharat Express schedule. It will leave Patna in the evening and arrive in Delhi the next morning, and the same pattern will follow on the return trip.

The train comes with modern facilities such as automatic doors, bio-toilets, CCTV cameras, reading lights, and upgraded interiors. It can run up to 160 km/h and includes advanced safety systems. Depending on future demand, the number of coaches may increase from 16 to 24.

The post Vande Bharat Sleeper Train: India’s New Sleeper Service Begins This Month appeared first on India Podcast.