Indian Railways has officially approved the Mumbai-Bengaluru Vande Bharat Sleeper train to improve connectivity between Maharashtra and Karnataka. Unlike the current chair-car trains, this service is specifically designed for overnight travel. Two rakes have already reached Bengaluru for testing and speed trials by BEML and ICF technicians.
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What are the features of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train
The new train will have 16 fully air-conditioned coaches with a total capacity of 823 passengers. The First AC coach recently unveiled online shows luxurious interiors and enclosed cabins for better privacy. Other key updates include:
- Better berth ergonomics for comfortable sleep
- Staircases instead of ladders for upper berths
- Advanced lighting systems and modern cabins
- Premium interiors for overnight journeys
Which route will the train take and how much time will it save
The exact route is being finalized between two options. The Kalaburagi route is shorter at 1,136 km with a speed of 130 kmph. The Hubballi route is 1,227 km long but connects more districts like Tumakuru, Davanagere, and Belagavi. The train will reduce travel time from 20-24 hours to about 14-16 hours.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Coaches | 16 AC Coaches |
| Passenger Capacity | 823 |
| Estimated Travel Time | 14-16 Hours |
| Maintenance Depot | Thanisandra (Cost: INR 270 crore) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When will the Mumbai-Bengaluru Vande Bharat Sleeper start?
The official launch date is not yet announced, but reports suggest it may start by late July or August. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi mentioned a superfast train would launch by June end and later convert to Vande Bharat Sleeper.
What is the difference between this train and the existing Vande Bharat?
The existing Vande Bharat trains are chair-car services for day travel, whereas this new service features sleeper berths and enclosed cabins designed specifically for overnight journeys.