New Delhi: Indian Railways is set to launch the country’s first Sleeper Vande Bharat train, offering a perfect blend of Tejas Express speed, Rajdhani-style comfort, and modern Vande Bharat technology, making long-distance travel faster and more comfortable for passengers.
Train Preparations and Trial Run
According to railway sources, two rakes are being prepared at the BEML factory in Bengaluru, with the first rake scheduled to depart for Northern Railway on 12 December 2025. The train’s trial run will be conducted on the Patna–Delhi route, and regular operations will commence after approval.
Coach Composition and Capacity
The train will have 16 coaches with a total of 827 berths:
- Third AC: 11 coaches, 611 berths
- Second AC: 4 coaches, 188 berths
- First AC: 1 coach, 24 berths
- Expandable to 24 coaches if needed
- Estimated Third AC fare: ₹2,000
Modern Facilities and Safety Features
Passengers can expect premium amenities, including:
- Automatic doors and bio-toilets
- Personal reading lights at every berth
- CCTV cameras and modern interiors
- Kevlar anti-collision system and crash-proof body design
- Operating speed: 160–180 km/h, reducing Delhi–Patna travel time to 11–11.5 hours
Schedule and Route
The train will run six days a week, departing from Patna’s Rajendra Nagar Terminal in the evening and reaching Delhi the next morning. Initially, the focus will be on the Delhi–Patna route, with plans to expand to Mumbai–Patna, Bengaluru–Patna, and Gorakhpur–Delhi in the near future.
Benefits
- Enhanced comfort for long-distance travelers
- Reduced travel time
- Boost to tourism and trade
With its combination of speed, safety, and modern amenities, the Sleeper Vande Bharat is poised to redefine long-distance train travel in India.
