Vande Bharat Unveiled
The Indian Railways is preparing to launch the Vande Bharat sleeper train, marking a significant advancement in rail travel. This premium service is designed
to enhance the passenger experience and reduce travel times. The initiative represents a move to modernize and improve the efficiency of the railway network. The launch of the Vande Bharat sleeper is eagerly anticipated by travelers looking for a faster and more comfortable way to commute, promising a better experience compared to existing express trains.
Fare Details Revealed
The Railways has finalized the fare structure for the Vande Bharat sleeper train. For a third AC journey between Howrah and Guwahati (Kamakhya), passengers will be charged Rs 2,299. The second AC fare for the same route is Rs 2,970, while the first AC ticket costs Rs 3,640. The fare from Howrah to New Jalpaiguri will be Rs 1,334 for 3AC, Rs 1,724 for 2AC, and Rs 2,113 for 1AC. A journey from Howrah to Malda Town is priced at Rs 960 (3AC), Rs 1,240 (2AC), and Rs 1,520 (1AC). Additionally, for the Kamakhya to Malda Town route, the fare is Rs 1,522 (3AC), Rs 1,965 (2AC), and Rs 2,409 (1AC). The Kamakhya to New Jalpaiguri route will cost Rs 962 (3AC), Rs 1,243 (2AC), and Rs 1,524 (1AC). Furthermore, a 5% GST will be applied to all tickets.
Route and Stops
The Vande Bharat sleeper service is scheduled to commence its journey on January 17. The train will travel from Howrah to Guwahati (Kamakhya), covering a distance of 958 km. It is expected to make 10 stops across seven districts of West Bengal, including Howrah, Hooghly, Purba Bardhaman, Murshidabad, Malda, Jalpaiguri, and Cooch Behar. The train will also stop in two districts of Assam, specifically Kamrup Metropolitan and Bongaigaon. This comprehensive route covers several key areas, providing convenient access for passengers across different regions.
Travel Time Reduced
A significant benefit of the Vande Bharat sleeper train is the reduction in travel time. The new service is expected to decrease travel duration by approximately three hours compared to existing express train services. This improvement will provide passengers with faster and more efficient transit options. This time-saving feature makes the Vande Bharat sleeper a desirable choice for travelers looking to optimize their journey schedules.
Ticket Issuance Policy
The Railways has established specific rules regarding ticket issuance for the Vande Bharat sleeper trains. Only confirmed tickets will be issued for this service. This means there will be no provision for Reservation Against Cancellation (RAC) tickets. This policy ensures that passengers with tickets have guaranteed seating, contributing to a more comfortable and predictable travel experience. By limiting ticket availability to confirmed bookings, the Railways aims to enhance the reliability of the service.
