This story is from June 26, 2024
Vande Bharat sleeper and Vande Metro - the two new trains by Indian Railways - are all set to hit tracks for trials in the coming months. While Vande Bharat sleeper train aims to better the Rajdhani Express travel experience for overnight journeys, the Vande Metro has been made with the idea of providing faster, more comfortable travel for short-distance train travel. Railway officials told TOI that Vande Metro trials will begin soon and Vande Bharat sleeper will roll out for trials by August 15. So how will the new trains change passenger travel experience on Indian Railways? Let’s take a look at the features that make Vande Bharat sleeper and Vande Metro special:
Vande Bharat sleeper, with features superior to the Rajdhani Express train, will be a semi-high speed train set with a speed of 160 kmph. The train will be tested at 180 kmph. The first prototype, being manufactured by BEML, will have a total of 16 coaches, which will include 11 AC 3 tier coaches, 4 AC 2 tier coaches, and a single AC 1st coach.
Vande Bharat sleeper train passengers can expect improved comfort in the berths, which will be equipped with extra cushioning, surpassing the standards of Rajdhani Express trains. The sides of each berth will also be well-cushioned to ensure a pleasant journey. Additionally, the ladder design will be optimized to facilitate easier access to the upper and middle berths.
Vande Bharat sleeper features: The common areas of the train will be equipped with sensor-based lighting, while energy-efficient overhead lighting will provide sufficient illumination throughout the train. Vande Bharat sleeper trains will feature sensor-based intercommunication doors, noise insulation and mitigation measures for a quiet saloon space, special berths and toilets for differently-abled passengers, and automatic entry/exit doors. The gangways will be fully sealed for a dust-free environment.
Vande Bharat sleeper trains will have semi-permanent couplers, a technology already employed in the current Vande Bharat chair car trains, with aim for jerk-free smooth rides. According to officials, Vande Bharat sleeper will also have superior crashworthy features for passenger safety.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Exterior: Officials have told TOI that the exterior design of the Vande Bharat sleeper train will draw inspiration from the "prowess of eagles," featuring sleek lines and a "fierce aura."
Vande Metro, a self-propelled train based on the Vande Bharat platform, is designed to replace Mainline EMU trains and offer passengers a faster and more comfortable travel experience. Unlike traditional trains, the Vande Metro does not require a locomotive to pull it, making it a more efficient and streamlined transportation option.
Vande Metro speed: Equipped with rapid acceleration and deceleration technology, the Vande Metro trains will be capable of reaching a maximum operational speed of 130 kmph, significantly surpassing the speed of current Mainline EMUs.
Vande Metro interior: The interior of the Vande Metro trains will feature modern, lightweight cushioned seats, providing seating for 100 passengers per coach, with additional standing room for 200 individuals.
Vande Metro will have lightweight aluminium luggage racks and Passenger Information Systems with LCD displays. The train will have automatic entry and exit doors, mobile charging sockets, route indicator displays, and wider panoramic sealed windows with roller blinds.