Overnight train journeys are the backbone of travel for millions in India. Now, Indian Railways is poised to transform this experience with the introduction of a new Vande Bharat sleeper prototype, promising a future of faster, safer, and more comfortable
travel.
A New Era for Sleeper Trains
Indian Railways is advancing its ambitious modernization plan with the development of the Vande Bharat sleeper train. The first prototype, manufactured by BEML Ltd in Bengaluru, has already completed successful field trials. This marks a significant step towards revolutionizing long-distance, overnight travel in the country. Unlike the chair-car versions of the Vande Bharat Express that currently connect various cities, this new variant is specifically designed for journeys spanning 800 to 1,200 kilometres. The first commercial service was launched on the Howrah-Kamakhya route in January 2026, and new routes, including Mumbai-Bengaluru and Delhi-Varanasi, are expected to be operational around late October and early November 2026. These trains are designed to operate at speeds of up to 160 kmph, significantly reducing travel time compared to existing express services.
Inside the Coach: A Focus on Comfort
The new Vande Bharat sleeper aims to provide a travel experience on par with global standards. Each 16-coach trainset is fully air-conditioned and designed to accommodate 823 passengers across three classes: AC First Class, AC Two-Tier, and AC Three-Tier. The interiors feature ergonomically designed, cushioned berths that are broader and more comfortable than those in current trains. Special attention has been given to reducing jerks and noise levels, ensuring a smoother and quieter ride. The design includes an improved ladder for accessing upper berths, sensor-based lighting in common areas, and individual reading lights with USB charging points for every passenger. For the first time, passengers in the AC First Class coaches will have access to a hot water shower facility.
Modern Amenities and Enhanced Safety
Beyond comfort, the Vande Bharat sleeper is packed with modern amenities. The train features automatic plug doors and fully sealed gangways, which help maintain a clean, dust-free environment and stable temperature inside the coaches. The bio-vacuum toilets are modelled after those in aircraft and include an odour-control system. Some toilets are also designed to be accessible for differently-abled passengers and may include baby-care stations. Safety is a paramount feature, with the train equipped with the indigenous KAVACH automatic train protection system to prevent collisions. The coaches are built with crashworthy stainless steel bodies and meet high European standards for fire safety. Additionally, CCTV cameras and an integrated public announcement and visual information system enhance passenger security and communication.
The Road Ahead: Expansion and Future Plans
Following the successful prototype trials, Indian Railways is moving forward with a large scale production plan. Contracts have been awarded for the manufacture of hundreds of new sleeper rakes, which will be produced at facilities including the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai and through technology partners. While the initial rollout consists of 16 coach trains, plans are already underway for a longer, 24 coach variant, which is targeted for a 2027 launch. This larger version will include a pantry car, allowing for hot meals to be prepared and served on board during long journeys. The introduction of these trains is a key part of Indian Railways' vision to scale its Vande Bharat fleet to 800 by 2030 and create a modern, efficient, and passenger centric rail network for the nation.
