Indian Railways shares plans for Vande Bharat sleeper trains with trial runs starting from August 15

In a significant development for Indian Railways, plans are underway to introduce Vande Bharat sleeper trains, set to undergo trial runs from August 15. These new trains promise to revolutionise long-distance travel in India, offering enhanced comfort and efficiency compared to existing options.

Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently announced ambitious targets, aiming to deploy around 250 Vande Bharat sleeper trains by 2029. "The completion work of the trainset is in full swing, and the first prototype will be operational within two months," stated Vaishnaw. The manufacturing of these trains is being handled by BEML Ltd at its facility in Bangalore.

Vande Bharat: Key features 

• The Vande Bharat sleeper prototype will consist of 16 coaches, including 11 AC 3-tier coaches, 4 AC 2-tier coaches, and 1 AC 1st class coach, accommodating a total of 823 passengers. Featuring advanced amenities such as extra-cushioned berths, sensor-based lighting, and noise-insulated cabins, these trains aim to set a new standard in passenger comfort.
• The interior design will incorporate a calming color scheme with elements of cream, yellow, and wood, ensuring a pleasant travel experience. Enhanced ladder designs and fully sealed gangways between coaches will facilitate seamless movement, complemented by improved accessibility features for differently-abled passengers.
• Designed for speeds up to 160 kmph during regular operation and undergoing tests at speeds up to 180 kmph, the Vande Bharat sleeper trains promise a blend of speed and comfort rarely seen in Indian railway travel.
• The exterior design, inspired by the agility of eagles, will feature sleek lines and a dynamic aesthetic, symbolising the nation's aspirations in modern rail transportation.
• With these innovations, Indian Railways seeks to redefine the travel experience for millions, promising not just efficiency but a new benchmark in comfort and safety.

Concept train - Vande Bharat (sleeper version)

Coming soon… early 2024 pic.twitter.com/OPuGzB4pAk

— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) October 3, 2023

In October 2023, the Railways Minister took to Twitter to share pictures of the Vande Bharat train, announcing its upcoming arrival in early 2024 with the caption "Concept train - Vande Bharat (sleeper version) Coming soon…".