The term Vande Bharat has become familiar in the Indian rail network as an express train service with modern amenities and higher speeds. Now, the railways are working on the next version: the Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains, designed for overnight journeys with sleeping berths instead of just chair-cars.
Are the Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains Delayed?
Yes, the rollout of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains is delayed. Several reports indicate the first prototypes have faced hold-ups. The prototype built by BEML and the Integral Coach Factory was delivered in late 2024 but still awaits full clearance from authorities.
Some of the key reasons include:
- Multiple furnishing and interior-quality defects flagged by the rail authorities.
- Design changes demanded mid-course, such as modification of coach layouts and addition of pantry or toilet facilities.
- Revised manufacturing timeline: The first prototype originally expected by mid-2025 is now reportedly shifted to March 2026.
The Indian Railways has confirmed that while systems like mechanical and electrical parts are under control, the furnishing and finishing work require further attention before passenger service begins.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains Routes
At present, no commercial route has been officially announced for the sleeper version of Vande Bharat. The focus remains on manufacturing and commissioning the prototype trains.
The plan is to deploy sleeper-type Vande Bharat trains on long-distance, overnight segments where a chair-car train isn’t ideal. Once cleared, potential routes might include major corridors connecting metro cities and overnight travel hubs.
Features of Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains
The sleeper variant shares the advanced platform of the existing Vande Bharat chair-car trains but adds features tailored for overnight journeys:
- Air-conditioned three-tier and two-tier sleeper berths rather than just seating arrangements.
- Enhanced safety features like crash-worthy couplers, fire detection systems, and the automatic train protection system “Kavach”.
- Modern interiors with robust paneling, bio-vacuum toilets, and optional first-class or lounge configurations.
- High-speed capability with successful test runs reaching up to 160-180 kmph.
The goal is to offer a premium overnight travel experience that matches the expectations set by the Vande Bharat brand but extends it to longer night journeys.
Railways Gives Update: Furnishing Issues
The Railways recently issued an update stating that the sleeper variant’s launch is being held up due to furnishing and interior work issues. Specific concerns include gaps in panels, leaking toilets, improperly secured berths, and poorly fitted curtain handles.
It was also reported that one prototype train was flagged with over 100 defects that need resolving before commercial service. Officials clarified that while the main systems work fine, the focus is now on perfecting passenger comfort and finishing quality before launch.
The ministry has indicated that they prefer delaying the service rather than launching with sub-standard interiors — a sign of focus on passenger comfort and safety. This update helps explain the delay beyond manufacturing or design challenges.
Disclaimer
This article is written for general informational purposes only. The status of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains is subject to change based on decisions by Indian Railways, manufacturers, and regulatory approvals. Nothing here should be taken as a formal announcement of routes, dates or ticket prices. For official updates, please refer to Indian Railways’ verified announcements.
FAQs
Q1: When will the Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains start operating?
A1: There is no confirmed date yet. Initial prototypes were expected by mid-2025, but delays have pushed timelines to March 2026 in several reports.
Q2: Why are Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains delayed?
A2: The delays stem largely from issues with interiors and furnishings — such as panel gaps, berth handles, and toilet fittings — as well as design revisions during production.
Q3: Will Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains run on the same routes as existing Vande Bharat Express trains?
A3: Not exactly. The sleeper variant is aimed at overnight long-distance journeys, which may differ from the current daytime chair-car Vande Bharat Express routes. Specific routes are yet to be announced.
