Vande Bharat Sleeper Train gets green signal: Here’s why travellers can’t wait to board it

New Delhi: The Railway Ministry has approved the rollout of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, which will become India’s first luxury sleeper service under the Vande Bharat brand. This project is part of Indian Railways’ drive to modernise long-distance travel and enhance comfort for overnight passengers.

While the train’s design has received praise for innovation, officials have flagged shortcomings in interior decoration and safety design, including sharp edges, curtain handles, and cleaning gaps known as “pigeon pockets.” The Railway Board has directed the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and zonal general managers to address these issues immediately.

Safety and technology upgrades

The ministry has made safety a top priority. The train will operate at a maximum speed of 160 kmph, following RDSO’s technical standards. Each coach will feature fire safety systems, Kavach 4.0 collision-prevention technology, and enhanced communication links between drivers and station masters.

Additionally, drivers and guards will undergo specialised training to handle emergencies, including opening semi-permanent couplers within 15 minutes. Temperature regulation and onboard safety announcements will be standardised.

The Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS) will grant the final operational approval before the train is put into service.

Passenger facilities and holding areas at 76 stations

To complement the new service, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has approved plans to construct permanent passenger holding areas at 76 major stations, including Mumbai CSMT, Howrah, Sealdah, Pune, and Agra Cantonment.

These areas will ensure safer and more organised passenger boarding, following the tragic 2023 New Delhi station stampede that killed 18 people. The ministry aims to complete the new holding facilities before the 2026 festive season, improving passenger comfort nationwide.

A new era in luxury and safety

Once operational, the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will combine luxury, speed, and safety for passengers travelling overnight across major routes. With enhanced design, upgraded technology, and a focus on passenger welfare, the project represents another leap in India’s railway modernisation journey.