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India’s First Sleeper Vande Bharat to Surpass Rajdhani Speed, Aiming for 2025 Launch
India is set to welcome its first sleeper version of the Vande Bharat Express trains, promising faster travel than the current Rajdhani Express, with officials targeting a significant reduction in journey time by up to two hours. The prototype of these advanced trains is expected to be ready by March, with test runs slated to start in April, according to government officials.
The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai is at the helm of designing the Vande Bharat (VB) sleeper coaches. These trains are designed to serve overnight routes, potentially starting on major trunk routes like Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Howrah by April next year. “The timing of this train will be optimized to accommodate the convenience of passengers, allowing them to board after office hours,” one official mentioned, highlighting the focus on passenger convenience.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has shared updates on the progress, noting that the design phase has been completed and the manufacturing of train sets has begun. The new trains are not just a testament to India’s manufacturing prowess but are also eyed for export potential, showcasing the country’s advancements in railway technology.
The Vande Bharat sleeper trains are undergoing significant modifications to ensure a comfortable and jerk-free experience. With a total of 857 berths across 16 coaches, including a luxurious 1AC tier coach, these trains are poised to offer a new level of comfort and efficiency. The design improvements extend to modern interior aesthetics, enhanced lighting, and more comfortable berths, ensuring an upgraded travel experience.
The collaborative effort between ICF and the Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) in Bengaluru underscores the commitment to delivering a superior product. “The concept model for all types of cars has been received, and we’re focusing on adjustments to enhance the passenger experience, including modifications to the berths, air ducts, and washrooms,” added an official.
With a keen eye on passenger comfort and operational efficiency, the Vande Bharat sleeper trains are poised to redefine India’s railway journey, making overnight travel faster and more comfortable than ever before.
