New Delhi: Indian Railways is set to revolutionise long-distance travel with the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Set, a state-of-the-art addition to the country’s fastest-growing fleet. The dream of a world-class, high-speed sleeper train is now a reality as the first 16-car Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Set has successfully completed rigorous trials by the Research Designs & Standards Organisation (RDSO) on 15 January 2025, covering a 540-kilometre distance in the Mumbai-Ahmedabad section. Integral Coach Factory, Chennai, completed the manufacturing of India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train set on 17 December 2024. Within a fortnight, the train was brought to the Kota division and successfully tested for short distances of 30 to 40 kilometres for three consecutive days in the first week of last month, achieving a comfortable travel experience at a high speed of 180 km per hour.
This achievement marks a significant leap in railway modernisation, promising a seamless and luxurious travel experience for passengers. With a focus on comfort, speed, and cutting-edge technology, the Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are set to redefine overnight journeys for the masses in the coming days.
Following the successful trial of the prototype, production of nine more Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Sets is scheduled between April and December 2025. These trains will set new benchmarks in efficiency and convenience for long-haul travellers. To support this ambitious rollout, Indian Railways has placed a major order for propulsion electrics for 50 rakes of the 24-car Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Sets on 17 December 2024. The order has been awarded to two leading Indian manufacturers, with the systems expected to be ready within a two-year timeframe. M/s Medha will supply propulsion systems for 33 rakes, while M/s Alstom will supply propulsion systems for 17 rakes. Looking ahead, full-scale production of the 24-car Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Sets will commence in 2026-27, further strengthening India’s self-reliance in railway technology.
The Vande Bharat sleeper trains are designed with features such as automatic doors, ultra-comfortable berths, onboard WiFi, and an aircraft-like design. Passengers in India are already enjoying reclining seats and a world-class travel experience through 136 Vande Bharat trains running across the country on medium and short distances. With the Vande Bharat Sleeper, passengers can expect a quieter, smoother, and more comfortable journey, equipped with world-class amenities and advanced safety features. Designed and built under the Make in India initiative, this train reflects India’s engineering excellence and commitment to transforming rail travel.
As Indian Railways moves forward with this transformative project, the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Set stands as a symbol of the nation’s vision for modern, efficient, and passenger-friendly transportation.
The train has 16 coaches divided into three classes: AC 1st Class, AC 2-Tier, and AC 3-Tier, with a total capacity of 1,128 passengers. It is equipped with crash buffers, deformation tubes, and a fire barrier wall. The train also features automatic doors, cushioned berths, and onboard WiFi. Before the operationalisation of India’s first Vande Bharat sleeper train, the Research Designs & Standards Organisation (RDSO) will issue a final certificate after analysing the trial runs. The railway safety commissioner will evaluate the train at its maximum speed.
BI Bureau
