India Clears First Vande Bharat Sleeper Train for Guwahati–Kolkata Route
India has completed trials and safety certification for its first Vande Bharat Sleeper train, marking a major step towards launching long-distance overnight rail services. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that the inaugural route will connect Guwahati and Kolkata, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expected to flag off the service in the coming weeks. The sleeper variant has been designed to meet rising demand for faster and more comfortable long-distance travel.
Built for journeys exceeding 1,000 km, the Vande Bharat Sleeper train offers modern sleeper coaches, improved suspension, and enhanced safety systems. Fares on the Guwahati–Howrah route are expected to be around ₹2,300 for AC three-tier, significantly lower than air travel costs on the same route. Indian Railways also plans higher-tier options, with AC two-tier and first-class AC priced at approximately ₹3,000 and ₹3,600 respectively.
The train recently underwent high-speed trials on the Kota–Nagda section in Rajasthan, reaching speeds of up to 180 kmph. After extensive checks covering braking, stability, vibration, and emergency systems, safety clearance was granted. Equipped with features such as KAVACH automatic train protection, CCTV, modern toilets, fire safety mechanisms, and energy-efficient technologies, the sleeper train reflects Indian Railways’ push for advanced, domestically built trains under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
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