Vande Bharat Sleeper Debuts, Promising Faster and Cosier Long-Distance Rail Travel

India’s rail network marked a historic milestone on Saturday with the launch of the country’s first Vande Bharat sleeper train, redefining overnight travel across eastern India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the high-speed sleeper service from Malda, inaugurating a new rail connection between Howrah and Guwahati. The return service from Guwahati to Howrah was also virtually inaugurated during the event.

The launch of the Vande Bharat sleeper marks a significant upgrade in India’s long-distance rail infrastructure, offering passengers a faster, safer, and more comfortable alternative to conventional overnight trains. The new service is expected to benefit thousands of daily travellers on one of the busiest rail corridors connecting Bengal and the North East.

During the flag-off ceremony, the Prime Minister interacted with children and students inside the train, underlining the project’s focus on serving diverse communities across West Bengal and Assam. Officials said the train has been developed to meet the evolving travel needs of modern India while maintaining affordability.

Faster Journeys With Overnight Comfort

The Vande Bharat sleeper train is designed to operate at a scheduled speed of 120–130 kmph, though it achieved speeds of up to 180 kmph during high-speed trials. One of its key advantages is a significant reduction in travel time. The Howrah–Guwahati route will now take approximately 2.5 hours less than existing services, making overnight journeys more efficient and predictable.

According to official statements, the reduction in travel time is expected to provide a boost to tourism and religious travel, improving connectivity to major destinations across eastern and northeastern India.

Modern Coaches and Enhanced Amenities

The new service consists of 16 fully air-conditioned sleeper coaches with a total capacity of 823 passengers. Designed for long overnight journeys, the train features modern interiors, improved lighting, privacy curtains, and ergonomically designed berths aimed at enhancing passenger comfort.

Special emphasis has been placed on hygiene and sanitation. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the coaches are equipped with advanced disinfectant technology capable of eliminating 99.9 per cent of germs, similar to systems already in use on Vande Bharat chair-car trains.

Regional Cuisine on Board

To enhance the travel experience, Indian Railways has introduced region-specific meals on the Vande Bharat sleeper service. Passengers departing from Guwahati will be served Assamese cuisine, while those boarding from Kolkata will receive Bengali dishes. Officials said the move reflects a focus on regional hospitality and cultural representation.

Infrastructure Push in East and North East

The Prime Minister’s visit to Malda also included the dedication and foundation stone laying for multiple rail and road projects worth Rs 3,250 crore. These projects aim to strengthen connectivity, improve logistics, and accelerate economic development in Bengal and the North East.

Looking ahead, the government plans a rapid expansion of the Vande Bharat sleeper network. Railway officials have indicated that 12 sleeper trainsets are expected to be ready within the year, with production scaling up further as the supply chain stabilises.

With speed, comfort, and modern design at its core, the Vande Bharat sleeper train is set to transform overnight rail travel, offering passengers a cosy yet time-efficient journey while reinforcing India’s push towards world-class transport infrastructure.