India’s rail network is set for another significant leap forward with the much-anticipated launch of the Vande Bharat Sleeper trains. After the immense popularity of the existing high-speed Vande Bharat Express trains, the Indian Railways is now focused on enhancing long-distance travel with a more comfortable overnight journey option. In a recent address to the Rajya Sabha on 25 July 2025, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw provided comprehensive updates on the development and rollout of these sleeper-class trains — including special announcements for Bihar.
Let’s break down all the major developments, real facts, and what passengers can expect from this next-gen railway transformation.
What is the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train?
The Vande Bharat Sleeper version is an upgraded, longer-distance alternative to the existing chair car models. These sleeper trains are being designed to operate on overnight routes, offering increased comfort, speed, and efficiency for travelers who journey across states.
Indian Railways has confirmed that the designs have been finalized, and production is in full swing. The initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize India’s rail infrastructure and provide passengers with world-class amenities.
Production Status & Timelines
According to the Railway Minister:
- 10 Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are currently under production.
- 50 more rakes are being manufactured at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai.
- A massive order for 200 additional Vande Bharat Sleeper trains has been placed.
- The production is being carried out in partnership with private players, ensuring innovation and faster rollout.
Among these:
- 120 trains will be built by M/s Kinet Railway Solutions Ltd as part of a public-private partnership.
- A prototype of the Vande Bharat Sleeper has already been completed.
- Field trials are currently underway to test ride quality, durability, and technical precision.
- Once successful, the first rake is expected to be launched in early 2026, depending on final test approvals.
Features to Expect in Vande Bharat Sleeper
These trains are not just about speed—they’re about experience. As per ICF and early prototype insights, the sleeper coaches will feature:
- Advanced suspension for smoother rides
- Noise and vibration reduction technology
- Smart lighting and ambient interiors
- Auto-closing doors and centralized AC systems
- Bio-vacuum toilets and Wi-Fi connectivity
- Enhanced security with CCTVs and smoke detection systems
These features aim to revolutionize the way Indians travel overnight — particularly over long distances where current options like Rajdhani or Duronto lack modern upgrades.
Railway Expansion: Real Progress in 3 Years
This isn’t a standalone project. The government is also executing a massive nationwide railway development program:
- 892 survey approvals have been granted in the last 3 years.
- 267 for new lines
- 11 for gauge conversions
- 614 for doubling of existing lines
- Total length covered: 61,462 kilometers
This expansion aims to decongest key rail corridors and improve both passenger and freight movement across India.
Bihar Gets a Major Railway Boost
The Railway Minister also announced several transformative projects specifically aimed at improving rail infrastructure and services in Bihar:
1. Station Redevelopment
- 98 stations in Bihar are undergoing redevelopment.
- Modern facilities, digital boards, waiting lounges, and escalators are being installed.
- The aim is to align these stations with the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme standards.
2. New Trains & Services
- Bihar is already served by 8 new trains, including:
- 5 Amrit Bharat Express trains
- 1 Namo Bharat semi-high-speed regional train
3. Completed Projects
- New railway bridges in Munger and Patna are now operational, improving regional connectivity.
- These bridges had been delayed for years but were completed under PM Modi’s leadership.
4. Connectivity & Safety
- 218 new flyovers and underpasses have been constructed.
- These have drastically reduced road-rail crossings and traffic bottlenecks.
5. Affordable Travel for EWS
- Routes such as Patna–Delhi, Darbhanga–Delhi, and Bengaluru-bound services now feature Amrit Bharat Express, offering low-cost but high-quality amenities targeted at economically weaker sections (EWS).
Technology Partnerships & Modernization
India’s shift toward Make in India in rail production has gained momentum with the Vande Bharat Sleeper project:
- The PPP model adopted for 200 sleeper trains enables faster deployment and technological innovation.
- Manufacturers are using aluminum-bodied and energy-efficient designs.
- These trains will likely feature automatic fire detection and suppression systems, digital reservation displays, and smart surveillance.
Strategic Importance of Sleeper Trains
With over 80% of Indian rail travelers preferring overnight journeys, sleeper coaches remain the backbone of Indian Railways. The Vande Bharat Sleeper is a strategic answer to this need, especially for middle and upper-middle-class travelers looking for premium yet affordable experiences. These trains are also being positioned to compete with low-cost airlines, especially for Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities where rail remains the primary long-distance mode.
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