Indian Railways or the IR is poised to revolutionise rail travel with the introduction of Vande Bharat Sleeper trains in early 2025. This third iteration of India’s indigenous semi-high-speed train series follows the successful deployment of Vande Bharat Express and Namo Bharat Rapid Rail services. Here is the first look inside these revolutionary new train services. From the number of AC coaches to amenities, read on for all of the other important details about them.
First Look Of Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains Revealed!
The first prototype, unveiled by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in September 2024, was manufactured by Bengaluru-based BEML. According to an article which was recently published by ET Now, the 16-coach configuration comprises eleven AC 3-tier coaches, four AC 2-tier coaches, and one AC First class coach, accommodating 823 passengers.
These cutting-edge trains boast amenities meeting European standards, featuring GFRP panels, sensor-operated intercommunication doors, and automated exterior passenger doors. The coaches are equipped with ergonomic, odour-free restrooms and modern passenger information systems.
Special attention has been paid to accessibility, with dedicated berths and toilets for passengers with disabilities. Each berth comes with integrated reading lights and USB charging ports. The Integral Coach Factory or the ICF in Chennai will conduct extensive testing and trials before the commercial launch.
Other Important Details That You Should Know About Them
The Railway Minister has indicated that two prototype trains are currently undergoing testing at BEML Bengaluru, with plans for a year-long operational assessment before commencing large-scale production. The manufacturing consortium includes BEML, Kinet Railway Solutions (an India-Russia joint venture), and BHEL-Titagarh Rail Systems.
According to ICF’s General Manager, whilst domestic demand currently fills their order books, export possibilities might be explored within three to four years. This ambitious project represents a significant upgrade from the existing Rajdhani Express service, promising enhanced comfort and modern amenities for long-distance rail travel in India.
The first commercial service is scheduled to commence within the 2024-25 financial year, marking a new chapter in IR’s modernisation journey.
Are you looking forward to the launch of Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains? Let us know in the comments section below!
Cover Image Credits: @trainwalebhaiyya/X (Formerly, Twitter)
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First Published: October 24, 2024 11:38 AM