Vande Bharat sleeper trains not ready yet? Here’s what’s causing the delay

New Delhi: The much-awaited Vande Bharat sleeper train, India’s next big leap in premium rail travel, is likely to see a delay in its rollout as the Ministry of Railways has raised concerns over quality and safety standards during final inspections.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw had earlier mentioned that two rakes of the sleeper version would be launched together. However, before the formal launch, the Railway Board has flagged multiple issues in the train’s finishing and fittings.

Quality and design issues identified

In a written note to the Director General of the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and General Managers of all railway zones, the Board listed several deficiencies.

“There are issues related to furnishing and workmanship at many places in respect of sharp edges and comers at berthing area, window curtain handles, pigeon pockets between berth connectors inviting cleaning issues, etc,” the Board stated.

The Ministry has directed manufacturers to take immediate corrective steps for the current rakes and improve the design for subsequent batches.

Approval and safety requirements

Officials explained that once the RDSO completes compliance with safety and performance observations, the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS) must give final approval before operations can begin. In the case of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, RDSO submitted its updated compliance report on September 1, 2025.

The Ministry has also stressed adherence to multiple safety and operational protocols, including:

• Fire safety compliance and installation of Kavach 4.0, the Indian train protection system.
• Reliable real-time communication between loco pilots, train managers, and station masters.
• Emergency training for drivers to disconnect train couplers within 15 minutes.
• Maintaining comfortable temperatures inside coaches, especially with frequent door operations.

Focus on passenger comfort and preparedness

To ensure a premium travel experience, zones have been told to assign dedicated technical staff for maintenance and onboard assistance. Vande Bharat sleeper train is expected to feature spacious berths so that the passengers can have a comfortable journey. There would also be onboard Wi-Fi and charging points.

The Ministry has also ordered the inclusion of pre-recorded safety announcements in Hindi, English, and regional languages during journeys to enhance passenger awareness.

Regular announcements shall be made through the PA system informing all persons other than passengers to disembark from the train before its departure.

The letter also emphasised that only passengers should remain onboard at departure time, and sufficient spare parts and consumables must be stocked for uninterrupted service.

Launch still on track but after fixes

Though a final date for the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train launch has not been announced, officials say the project remains a top priority.

The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, designed for long-distance overnight journeys, is a new variant of the semi-high-speed Vande Bharat Express. The sleeper version is being built to offer a more luxurious experience than even the Rajdhani Express.