Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, extended warm New Year greetings at a meeting at Rail Bhawan, New Delhi today while announcing that the first-ever Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will operate between Guwahati in Assam and Howrah in West Bengal. He stated that the complete trial, testing, and certification of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train have been successfully completed. In the month of January, Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi will flag off the first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train on this route. The Minister stated that this development represents a significant milestone for Indian Railways, the nation, and its rail passengers. He also mentioned that 2026 will be a year of major reforms for Indian Railways, with several passenger-centric initiatives set to be introduced.

The districts benefitted by the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train include Kamrup Metropolitan and Bongaigaon in Assam State, and Coochbehar, Jalpaiguri, Maldah, Murshidabad, Purba Bardhaman, Hooghly, and Howrah in West Bengal State. The train will have 16 coaches, including 11 three-tier AC coaches, 4 two-tier AC coaches, and 1 first-class AC coach, with a total capacity of around 823 passengers.

Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that a completely newly designed bogie with new suspension has been developed. The design parameters have been taken to a new level. Its interiors and ladders feature an ergonomic design, with special parameters implemented throughout for safety and security.

The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will offer a comfortable, safe, and high-quality travel experience for overnight journeys. The timetable of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will be planned in such a way that it departs from its origin in the evening and reaches its destination early the next morning.

Passengers on the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will enjoy region-specific culinary offerings during their journey. Train originating from Guwahati will feature authentic Assamese cuisine, while train starting from Kolkata will serve traditional Bengali delicacies, ensuring a delightful and culturally rich dining experience on board.

Features of Vande Bharat Sleeper Train:

• Semi-high-speed train with design speed up to 180 kmph

• Ergonomically designed berths with improved cushioning

• Automatic doors with vestibules for smooth movement

• Enhanced ride comfort with superior suspension and noise reduction

• Fitted with KAVACH

• Disinfectant technology to maintain high sanitation

• Driver cab with advanced controls and safety systems

• Aerodynamic exterior looks & Automatic exterior passenger doors

• Special arrangements for Divyangjans

• Emergency talk-back unit for communication between Passenger and Train Manager/Loco Pilot in case of emergency

• CCTVs in all coaches

• Improved fire safety Aerosol based fire detection and suppression system in electrical cabinets and lavatories

The first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train marks a new era in Indian Railways, combining speed, comfort, and modern amenities for overnight travel. It demonstrates the Indian Railways’ focus on passenger-centric services, technological innovation, and regional connectivity, offering travelers a safe, fast, convenient, and culturally enriched journey.

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Dharmendra Tewari/ Dr. Nayan Solanki/ Ritu Raj/ Manik Sharma