TFP Bureau,New Delhi, January 4, 2026: Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, on Friday inspected India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train at New Delhi Railway Station, marking a major milestone in the modernisation of long-distance passenger rail services in the country.
During the detailed inspection, the Minister reviewed the overall design, interiors and technical features of the sleeper train, with particular focus on passenger comfort, safety systems and onboard amenities. He examined sleeper berths, seating arrangements, coach layout, lighting, ventilation and ergonomics, while interacting with railway officials and engineers involved in the project. Emphasis was laid on ensuring a safe, comfortable and technologically advanced travel experience for overnight journeys.
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is equipped with a range of modern safety and security features, including automatic doors, the indigenous KAVACH anti-collision system, enhanced fire detection and suppression mechanisms, CCTV surveillance in all coaches and advanced disinfectant and sanitation technologies. Special attention has been given to toilet design, with innovations aimed at improving hygiene standards, preventing water splashes and ensuring ease of use, reflecting Indian Railways’ renewed focus on cleanliness and passenger convenience.
Designed as a semi-high-speed train with a maximum design speed of up to 180 kmph, the sleeper variant combines faster travel times with the comfort required for long overnight journeys. Advanced suspension systems have been incorporated to ensure smoother rides, reduced vibration and enhanced passenger comfort even at higher speeds.
The 16-coach train has a total passenger capacity of around 823 and includes 11 AC three-tier coaches, four AC two-tier coaches and one AC first-class coach. The train has successfully completed all stages of trials, testing and certification, and officials informed the Minister that it is fully ready for commercial operations.
The first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will operate on the Guwahati–Howrah route, connecting Assam and West Bengal and catering to a high-demand long-distance corridor in eastern India. The service is expected to significantly reduce travel time while offering a premium onboard experience. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to flag off the inaugural run of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train later this month.
Adding a regional touch to the journey, Indian Railways has planned region-specific culinary offerings onboard. Passengers travelling from Guwahati will be served authentic Assamese cuisine, while those boarding from Kolkata will enjoy traditional Bengali dishes, providing a culturally enriched dining experience.
Reviewing the preparedness, the Union Minister expressed satisfaction over the train’s readiness and noted that the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train represents a transformative step in India’s rail journey. The project reflects Indian Railways’ commitment to passenger-centric innovation, indigenous technology and world-class infrastructure, while strengthening overnight rail travel as a modern, efficient and comfortable mode of transport.
