Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually inaugurate India’s first-ever Vande Bharat Sleeper Train today, ushering in a new era of luxury rail travel. This homegrown marvel combines high speed with sleeper comfort, targeting busy professionals and families on overnight routes.
Unlike daytime Vande Bharat expresses, this version features dedicated sleeper accommodations in 1st AC, 2-tier AC, and 3-tier AC classes. Spanning 20 coaches, it offers 823 berths with state-of-the-art facilities designed for restful journeys.
Key highlights include individual berth controls, USB charging ports, infotainment screens, and modular interiors for privacy. The train’s KAVACH anti-collision system ensures top safety standards, complemented by fire detection alarms and emergency communication tools.
Engineered for efficiency, the train consumes 30% less energy than traditional sleepers, thanks to regenerative braking and advanced propulsion. Its top speed of 160 kmph slashes travel time significantly—Delhi to Varanasi in under 12 hours.
The project, a brainchild of Railway PSU ICF, involved over 1,000 engineers working tirelessly. Prototypes underwent rigorous testing across diverse terrains, validating performance in extreme conditions.
Indian Railways plans rapid rollout, with similar trains slated for Mumbai-Ahmedabad, Delhi-Jammu, and Chennai-Bengaluru routes. This addresses chronic overcrowding in premium sleepers like Rajdhani and Duronto.
PM Modi’s launch aligns with the government’s vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047. By prioritizing indigenous tech, India reduces import dependence and creates jobs in the rail sector.
Passenger feedback from trial runs has been overwhelmingly positive, praising berth comfort and food quality. As bookings gear up, expect a surge in demand for these futuristic trains that blend speed, safety, and luxury seamlessly.
