The first prototype of the Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset has been successfully manufactured and is set for field trials, with its official rollout depending on the completion of these trials. Union Minister of Railways, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, in his recent statement to the Rajya Sabha, highlighted that these new sleeper trains, designed for long and medium-distance travel, are equipped with numerous passenger-centric features aimed at providing an unparalleled travel experience.

Here’s how the Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are set to benefit passengers:

Enhanced Safety: The KAVACH system ensures top-notch safety for passengers, while the trains comply with EN-45545 HL3 fire safety standards, offering peace of mind during travel.

Comfortable and Smooth Ride: The semi-permanent couplers and anti-climbers offer a jerk-free ride, while the regenerative braking system ensures a smoother and energy-efficient journey.

Faster Travel: With quick acceleration and deceleration, passengers can enjoy faster travel, reducing overall journey time without compromising comfort.

Emergency Communication: In case of emergencies, the emergency talk-back units enable seamless communication between passengers and the train crew, ensuring swift action when needed.

Accessibility for All: The Vande Bharat Sleeper trains come with accessible toilets and accommodation for passengers with restricted mobility, ensuring inclusivity for all travelers.

Convenience at Every Step: Features like automatic plug doors, wider gangways, and ergonomically designed ladders make boarding and movement inside the train easier and more comfortable for passengers.

Security and Monitoring: CCTV surveillance cameras in all coaches provide enhanced security, while the Centralized Coach Monitoring System keeps track of amenities such as air conditioning and lighting, ensuring a comfortable environment throughout the journey.

As of December 2, 2024, 136 Vande Bharat services are already operating across the Indian Railways network, including 16 services serving stations in Tamil Nadu. The longest service runs between Delhi and Banaras, covering 771 km, making travel more efficient and comfortable.

Shri Vaishnaw also pointed out that the introduction of new Vande Bharat services, including sleeper variants, will continue based on traffic needs, operational feasibility, and resource availability. With these advanced features, Vande Bharat trains are poised to revolutionize rail travel, providing passengers with an experience that combines safety, comfort, and speed.
 

Source/PIB & RSB