Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Set: Paving way for new era of comfortable long-distance travel in India

New Delhi : Indian Railways is on the brink of a major transformation in long-distance travel with the introduction of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Set, a modern addition to its rapidly expanding fleet, according to an official statement from the Ministry of Railways.

The long-anticipated vision of a high-speed, world-class sleeper train has come to fruition as the first 16-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper Train successfully completed extensive trials. Conducted by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) on January 15, 2025, the train covered a distance of 540 kilometres between Mumbai and Ahmedabad. The Integral Coach Factory in Chennai finalised the manufacturing of this first sleeper set on December 17, 2024, the Ministry informed.

Shortly after production, the train was moved to the Kota division, where it underwent short-distance tests ranging from 30 to 40 kilometres over three consecutive days in early January. During these trials, the train achieved a high-speed performance of 180 km per hour while ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride, the release noted.

This milestone represents a major advancement in the modernisation of Indian Railways, promising passengers a seamless and luxurious travel experience. “With a focus on comfort, speed and cutting-edge technology, the Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are set to redefine the overnight journeys for masses in the days to come,” the Ministry added.

Following the successful prototype trials, Indian Railways plans to produce nine additional Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Sets between April and December 2025. These trains aim to establish new standards of efficiency and convenience for long-distance travelers.

To support this ambitious rollout, Indian Railways placed a substantial order for propulsion electrics for 50 rakes of the 24-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Sets on December 17, 2024. This order was awarded to two prominent Indian manufacturers and is expected to be fulfilled within two years.

Looking further ahead, the full-scale production of the 24-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Sets is scheduled to commence in 2026-27, further bolstering India’s self-reliance in advanced railway technology, the release stated.

These sleeper trains come equipped with features such as automatic doors, ultra-comfortable berths, onboard WiFi and an aircraft-like design. Indian passengers are already experiencing premium travel with 136 Vande Bharat trains operating across the country on medium and short-distance routes. The sleeper variant promises an even quieter, smoother and more luxurious journey with world-class amenities and advanced safety systems. Designed and manufactured under the Make in India initiative, this train symbolises India's engineering prowess and its commitment to revolutionizing rail travel, according to the Ministry's statement.

The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Set comprises 16 coaches divided into three classes: AC First Class, AC 2-Tier, and AC 3-Tier, offering a total seating capacity of 1,128 passengers. Safety features include crash buffers, deformation tubes, fire barrier walls and cushioned berths, alongside automatic doors and WiFi connectivity.

Before the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is operationalised, the RDSO will issue a final certification after analysing the trial results. The Railway Safety Commissioner will also conduct evaluations at the train’s maximum speed, the Ministry's statement concluded.
 

ANI