Introduction of Sleeper Trains
This year, Indian Railways is set to enhance passenger experiences by introducing the first sleeper trains in the country. A total of ten Sleeper Vande Bharat trains are expected to commence operations by December 2023, following the successful testing and prototype trials. These trains are designed to provide a more comfortable journey for long-distance travelers, making train travel a more appealing option for those covering extensive distances.
Successful Prototype Trials
The inaugural 16-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper Train has successfully completed trials conducted by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO), covering a distance of 540 kilometers on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad route. This trial took place on January 15, 2025. Following the prototype’s construction by the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai, further short-distance tests were performed in the Kota Division, where the train achieved speeds of up to 180 km/h over a distance of 30 to 40 kilometers.
Future Production and Routes
Looking ahead, Indian Railways has outlined plans for the production of 50 sleeper Vande Bharat train sets, with an order placed on December 17, 2024, to two major manufacturers. These trains are anticipated to be available within two years, with Medha producing 33 rakes and Alstom 17. Potential routes for the new sleeper trains may include major city connections such as Delhi to Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Howrah, Ranchi, and Ahmedabad, although the final routes have yet to be confirmed. Full-scale production of the sleeper train sets is expected to begin in 2026-27, further advancing India’s railway technology and self-reliance.
Important Information Organised For You.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
Gifts for Passengers |
Passengers traveling by train will receive gifts to make their journey easier. |
First Sleeper Trains |
The first sleeper trains in the country are set to run, with 10 Vande Bharat sleeper trains starting by December 2023. |
Production Timeline |
Production of nine Vande Bharat sleeper train sets will occur between April to December 2025. |
Prototype Trials |
The first 16-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper Train successfully completed a 540 km trial on January 15, 2025. |
Speed and Testing |
The prototype was tested at a maximum speed of 180 kmph over a short distance of 30-40 km. |
Potential Routes |
Possible routes include Delhi to Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Howrah, Ranchi, and Ahmedabad. |
Future Orders |
Indian Railways has ordered 50 rakes of 24-coach Vande Bharat sleeper train sets, expected to be ready within 2 years. |
Manufacturers |
Medha will produce 33 rakes and Alstom will produce 17 rakes. |
Full Scale Production |
Full-scale production is expected to start in 2026-27, enhancing India’s railway technology self-reliance. |