India has taken a major step toward modern rail travel with the launch of its first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train. On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the historic train from Malda Town in West Bengal. With this launch, Indian Railways has entered a new phase of high-speed overnight journeys that focus on comfort, safety, and affordability.
Faster Connectivity Between Howrah and Guwahati
To begin with, the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will run on the Howrah–Guwahati (Kamakhya) route, covering 958 kilometers in just 14 hours. The train reaches a maximum speed of 180 kmph, making it one of the fastest sleeper trains in India. As a result, passengers will save several hours of travel time. Moreover, the new service will significantly improve rail connectivity between eastern India and the Northeast.
Modern Coach Design and High Passenger Capacity
In terms of capacity, the train carries 1,128 passengers. It features 16 modern sleeper coaches designed for long-distance comfort. These include 11 AC 3-Tier coaches, four AC 2-Tier coaches, and one First AC coach. Therefore, travelers can choose a class that suits both their budget and comfort preferences. Additionally, the sleeper layout allows passengers to rest properly during overnight journeys.
Affordable Ticket Fares Compared to Air Travel
Equally important, Indian Railways has kept the ticket prices competitive to attract more passengers. The fares stand at ₹2,300 for AC 3-Tier, ₹3,000 for AC 2-Tier, and around ₹3,600 for First AC. In comparison, airlines usually charge ₹6,000 to ₹8,000 on the Guwahati–Howrah route, and prices sometimes rise to ₹10,000. Hence, the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train offers a faster and far more economical alternative to flying.
Advanced Safety Systems and World-Class Facilities
Besides speed and cost savings, the train delivers a high level of safety and comfort. Indian Railways has equipped it with the Kavach safety system, which actively prevents accidents. In addition, the improved suspension system ensures a smooth and stable ride at high speeds.
Furthermore, passengers enjoy comfortable sleeper berths with enhanced cushioning, modern toilets, and a fully equipped pantry car. Consequently, the overall travel experience feels premium and well-suited for long journeys.
A New Milestone for Indian Railways
Overall, the introduction of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train marks a significant milestone for Indian Railways. It not only reduces travel time and cost but also strengthens connectivity with the Northeast. As a result, the train will support tourism, trade, and economic growth across the region.
Looking ahead, Indian Railways plans to introduce more Vande Bharat Sleeper trains on major long-distance routes. Ultimately, these initiatives will make rail travel in India faster, more comfortable, and more passenger-centric.
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