New Delhi: The first Vande Bharat Sleeper train will operate on the Guwahati–Kolkata route, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Thursday. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off the inaugural service in the coming days. The launch follows the successful completion of multiple trial runs and is expected to significantly improve overnight rail connectivity in the region.

Speaking at a press conference, Vaishnaw said the new sleeper service would benefit a wide range of passengers, including business travellers, families, students and tourists, by offering a faster, safer and more reliable overnight travel option between the two cities.

“The testing and certification of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train have been completed, and its first proposed route is Guwahati–Kolkata. Prime Minister Modi will flag off the service shortly. This is an important milestone, as the train will provide world-class facilities, enhanced safety and a modern travel experience for long-distance overnight journeys,” the minister said.

The final high-speed trial of the indigenously developed train was recently conducted on the Kota–Nagda section, during which it successfully attained a top speed of 180 kmph.

The inauguration is expected to take place within the next 15–20 days, around January 17–18.

The Vande Bharat Sleeper will comprise 16 coaches, including 11 three-tier AC coaches, four two-tier AC coaches and one first AC coach. The total passenger capacity will be 823, with accommodation for 611 passengers in 3AC, 188 in 2AC and 24 in first AC.

Railway officials said the indicative fares have been set at around Rs 2,300 for 3AC, including meals, approximately Rs 3,000 for 2AC, and about Rs 3,600 for first AC.

The train has been designed with a strong focus on passenger comfort and safety. Features include ergonomically designed berths with improved cushioning, automatic doors with vestibules, enhanced suspension systems and reduced noise levels for a smoother ride. Spacious interiors, modern lighting and user-friendly amenities are expected to raise the standard of overnight train travel in India.

For safety, the train is equipped with the Kavach anti-collision system and an emergency talk-back facility. Additional features include disinfectant technology in the coaches to maintain hygiene standards, advanced control and safety systems in the driver’s cab, an aerodynamic exterior design, and automatic exterior passenger doors. DeshGujarat