The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai is set to redefine long-distance travel in India with the finalization of production drawings for its new 24-coach Vande Bharat sleeper trains. These high-capacity trainsets are designed to cater to the growing demand for premium overnight rail travel, offering significantly more space and comfort for passengers across the country.
- 1,224 total berths per Vande Bharat sleeper train, an increase of 401 berths over current models.
- Configuration includes 17 AC 3-tier, 5 AC 2-tier, 1 AC First Class coach, and a full AC pantry car.
- ICF production target set for 50 high-capacity Vande Bharat sleeper trainsets.
- Amrit Bharat 3.0 will feature a hybrid design including AC, sleeper, and general class coaches.
Expanding Capacity for Long-Distance Passengers
According to ICF General Manager Manish Agarwal, the move toward 24-coach trainsets is a strategic effort to boost passenger throughput without compromising on the signature Vande Bharat experience. By increasing the capacity to 1,224 berths, Indian Railways aims to accommodate more travelers on popular long-distance routes. The inclusion of a full AC pantry car is specifically designed to streamline catering services, ensuring that passengers receive high-quality meal services throughout their journey.
Evolution of the Amrit Bharat Series
While the Vande Bharat series focuses on premium travel, the upcoming Amrit Bharat 3.0 signifies a major shift in the Railways’ approach to affordable transit. Previous versions of the Amrit Bharat trains were limited to non-AC services, but the new generation will introduce a versatile mix of AC, sleeper, and general class coaches. This design adjustment is intended to provide a more comfortable and inclusive travel experience for a wider spectrum of passengers. As part of the national mandate to modernize railway infrastructure, these upgrades represent a significant leap in balancing passenger comfort with operational efficiency, ensuring that the Indian Railways network remains accessible and modern for everyone.