Sleeper Vande Bharat Approved
In a significant move towards enhancing long-distance rail travel, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has officially approved the introduction of a new
Vande Bharat sleeper train service. This highly anticipated route will connect Bengaluru, specifically the KSR Bengaluru railway station, with Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT). The approval follows a period of strong performance from the Vande Bharat sleeper model, exemplified by the successful launch of the Kamakhya-Howrah service earlier this year. This initiative is part of a broader governmental push to increase the availability of modern sleeper train options across the nation, with a target of deploying twelve new sleeper rakes by the end of 2026. The decision was communicated in a formal letter dated April 5, 2026, to PC Mohan, the BJP Member of Parliament representing Bangalore Central, highlighting the government's commitment to improving inter-city connectivity and passenger comfort.
Enhanced Connectivity Promised
The upcoming Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat sleeper train is poised to revolutionize travel between these two bustling metropolises. Passengers can anticipate a markedly improved journey, characterized by reduced travel times and a suite of modern amenities designed for ultimate comfort during overnight travel. This new service aims to provide a world-class travel experience, rivaling other premium transportation options and reinforcing the Vande Bharat brand's reputation for innovation and passenger satisfaction. The introduction of this route is a strategic step in the government's vision to create a more efficient and comfortable railway network, catering to the growing demand for premium long-distance travel options and fostering greater economic and social exchange between the two important Indian cities.
Vande Bharat's Growing Footprint
The Vande Bharat train network has demonstrated impressive growth and passenger adoption since its inception. Launched initially on the New Delhi-Varanasi route in February 2019, these semi-high-speed trains have collectively served over 9.1 crore passengers across one lakh journeys. The fiscal year 2024-25 alone saw approximately 3.98 crore passengers utilizing the service, marking a substantial year-on-year increase of nearly 34 percent compared to the 2.97 crore passengers in FY 2023-24. This upward trend underscores the increasing popularity and reliance on Vande Bharat services. The Kamakhya-Howrah Vande Bharat sleeper, in its initial 119 trips over three months, achieved remarkable success, operating at over 100 percent occupancy and transporting 1.21 lakh passengers, attesting to the strong demand for overnight sleeper services within the premium segment.
