Vande Bharat Sleeper: New 24-Coach Trains with Pantry!
Indian Railways is set to revolutionize overnight travel by upgrading its Vande Bharat Sleeper fleet. In a major strategic shift, the railway is moving from the initial 16-coach configuration to a much larger 24-coach model. This upgrade is specifically designed to enhance passenger capacity and provide superior amenities for long-distance commuters.
Massive Capacity Boost and On-Board Dining
One of the most significant improvements in the upcoming 24-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper is the substantial increase in passenger accommodation. While the standard 16-coach versions offer approximately 823 berths, the new 24-coach variant will provide roughly 1,224 berths, allowing more travelers to benefit from this premium service.
To ensure a high-quality travel experience, the new rakes will include several key upgrades:
- Dedicated Pantry Car: A specialized car will be integrated into the train to facilitate the service of hot, freshly prepared meals to passengers during their journeys.
- European-Style Berths: The sleeping arrangements are being designed to offer enhanced comfort and modern aesthetics.
- Advanced Toilets: The trains will feature modern bio-vacuum toilets for improved hygiene.
- Automatic Doors: For enhanced safety and a smoother boarding experience.
High-Speed Travel with Advanced Safety
These new Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are engineered to achieve impressive speeds of up to 160 kilometers per hour. Beyond speed, the focus remains heavily on passenger safety and technological efficiency.
The new trains will be equipped with the Kavach anti-collision system, a critical safety layer for Indian tracks. Additionally, the use of regenerative braking technology will make these trains more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient during operation.
Senior Railway Board officials have indicated that the project is designed to offer a travel experience that surpasses even the Rajdhani Express, aiming to set a new standard for overnight rail travel.
Manufacturing and Launch Timeline
The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai has been commissioned to manufacture 50 of these advanced Vande Bharat Sleeper train sets. The design specifications for these units are expected to be finalized by the end of 2026.
Following the design phase, the inaugural service is projected to debut in the first half of 2027, with a specific target for the first run in June 2027.