Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the launch while addressing the Ati Vishisht Rail Seva Awards function in the national capital. The Prime Minister will flag off the train at Malda Town in West Bengal. The service will operate six days a week between Kamakhya Junction and Howrah Junction, covering a distance of over 1,000 km.
The Vande Bharat Sleeper rake comprises 16 coaches, including 11 Third AC coaches, four Second AC coaches, and one First AC coach. Designed specifically for long-haul journeys, the train features world-class sleeper berths, improved suspension systems, and enhanced safety mechanisms. Stair access has been provided for upper berths to improve passenger convenience.
Highlighting the technological standards, railway officials pointed to recent trial runs where the train achieved speeds of up to 180 kmph on the Kota–Nagda section. During testing, glasses filled with water reportedly remained stable, underscoring the smoothness of the ride and the effectiveness of the upgraded suspension system.
Fares for the sleeper service have been positioned as a cost-effective alternative to air travel. The introductory fare for Third AC has been set at ₹2,300, Second AC at ₹3,000, and First AC at approximately ₹3,600. Vaishnaw noted that airfares on the Guwahati–Howrah sector often range between ₹6,000 and ₹10,000, making the new train a competitive option for passengers.
In addition to the Vande Bharat Sleeper, the Railway Minister confirmed that six new Amrit Bharat Express trains will be launched on January 17 and 18. These services are part of a broader push to enhance connectivity and capacity across the rail network.
Vaishnaw also said 2026 will be a transformative year for Indian Railways, with large-scale adoption of Artificial Intelligence for operations, safety monitoring, and predictive maintenance. By the end of the year, around 12 Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are expected to be operational nationwide, strengthening long-distance rail travel and easing pressure on air routes.
3.jpg)
