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Vande Bharat Express Set to Introduce Sleeper Coaches for More Comfortable Overnight Travel
In an exciting development, India's iconic Vande Bharat Express is gearing up to launch sleeper coaches, providing passengers with a new level of comfort during overnight journeys. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently unveiled concept images of the sleeper version of Vande Bharat on 'X' and 'Koo', promising that these innovative trains will be ready by early 2024.
The sleeper coaches in Vande Bharat are expected to revolutionize long-distance train travel in India. These coaches will feature a range of amenities, including wider berths, well-lit interiors, spacious toilets, a mini pantry, and advanced safety measures. Not only will passengers experience enhanced comfort, but these coaches are also designed to be more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, aligning with India's commitment to sustainable transportation.
The introduction of sleeper coaches is a significant milestone for the Indian Railways, making high-speed train travel accessible for overnight journeys. This move aims to attract more passengers to opt for train travel, ultimately boosting railway ridership across the country.
Vande Bharat Express, often considered a symbol of India's self-reliance and technological advancement, is manufactured entirely in India at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai. The inaugural Vande Bharat Express, running between New Delhi and Varanasi, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 15, 2019.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also shared that there will be three versions of Vande Bharat trains- Vande Chair Car, Vande Metro, and Vande Sleepers-rolling out by February-March of the next year. These trains will replace the iconic Shatabdis, Rajdhanis, and local trains on various routes nationwide.
Furthermore, every state in India is expected to have its own Vande Bharat train by mid-June next year. The production of these innovative trains is being expedited in two additional factories.
The Indian Railways is also actively working on upgrading tracks to support the top speed of 160 kmph for Vande Bharat trains over the next three to four years. These enhancements will further enhance the travel experience, making train travel faster and more convenient.
The first Vande Bharat sleeper train is set to comprise 16 coaches, including one AC1 coach. This version will offer a total of 857 berths, with 823 berths designated for passengers and the rest reserved for railway staff. Currently, there are 33 Vande Bharat trains operating in the country, all of which provide sitting facilities.
With the introduction of sleeper coaches in Vande Bharat Express, overnight train travel in India is on the cusp of a significant transformation, promising passengers a blend of comfort and speed on their journeys.
