Routes and Prices
The Howrah–Kamakhya route, spanning approximately 1,000 kilometers, will be one of the first routes for the Vande Bharat Sleeper train. One-way ticket
prices are set at Rs 2,300 for 3AC, Rs 3,000 for 2AC, and Rs 3,600 for 1AC. These fares encompass meal costs, with Goods and Services Tax (GST) charged separately. Another route mentioned is between Delhi and Patna. The minimum chargeable distance is 400 kilometers, with fares starting at Rs 960 for 3AC, Rs 1,240 for 2AC, and Rs 1,520 for 1AC, designed to be affordable for the middle class. The fare structure is designed to remain budget-friendly for the average middle-class traveller. The train’s services aim to provide a blend of comfort, convenience, and affordability, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Booking and Rules
Booking for the Vande Bharat Sleeper trains will be straightforward, with all berths available from the first day of the advance reservation period. The booking system prioritizes ease and transparency, with limited quotas applicable for specific categories such as ladies, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and duty pass holders. A key differentiator for these trains is the 'no waiting list' policy; tickets will be issued only when fully confirmed. This policy removes the possibilities of a waiting list, reservation against cancellation (RAC), and partial confirmations, thus guaranteeing a less crowded and more enjoyable journey, comparable to the premium Rajdhani trains. This approach is intended to streamline the travel experience, providing passengers with peace of mind knowing their seat is guaranteed, contributing to a more comfortable and hassle-free travel.
Comfort and Refunds
Passengers can anticipate a comfortable travel experience on the Vande Bharat Sleeper trains, which exclusively feature AC classes: 1AC, 2AC, and 3AC. The Railways are committed to providing enhanced passenger comfort and convenience. The allocation of lower berths will be automated, subject to availability, favouring senior citizens, women over 45, and children. Digital payments will be prioritized to ensure quick refunds, with processing expected within 24 hours. The focus is to make the entire journey, from booking to the refund process, as seamless and customer-friendly as possible, addressing typical pain points in train travel and improving passenger satisfaction. These measures aim to make the entire travel experience pleasant and efficient.
Flag-Off and Plans
The inaugural Vande Bharat Sleeper train will soon commence operations between Howrah in Kolkata and Kamakhya in Guwahati. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to flag off the train on January 17 or 18. This launch marks a significant advancement in Indian Railways, introducing a new era of comfortable and efficient travel. The plans also include expanding the service to additional routes, such as the Delhi-Patna corridor, as part of an effort to improve connectivity across the nation. These plans demonstrate a proactive strategy to modernise and improve the passenger travel experience and expand the reach of high-quality rail services across India, showcasing the commitment to improving transportation infrastructure.
