Vande Bharat sleeper: When will Indian Railways launch the new train? Ashwini Vaishnaw shares important update

Vande Bharat sleeper train launch: Indian Railways is looking to launch the first Vande Bharat sleeper train soon, with the first prototype rake undergoing changes after trial runs. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has said that the aim is to launch the new Vande Bharat sleeper variant in December.

The train has faced delays and after extensive trials of the first rake, changes have been suggested in the train to enhance passenger comfort. Vande Bharat Express has emerged as the new face of premium travel on Indian Railways. The AC chair car version, which is currently in service, caters to day travel needs. The new Vande Bharat sleeper train will look to offer superior comfort to Rajdhani Express trains on long-distance overnight routes.

Vande Bharat sleeper train: When will it be launched?

Ashwini Vaishnaw has said that the train will be launched in December. ‘Minor’ retrofitting work is in progress on the first Vande Bharat sleeper train to enhance passenger comfort, with the modified train set to debut next month, according to Vaishnaw.

PTI quoted Vaishnaw as saying that after the trials of the first train, recommended modifications to the bogie and seats are currently being done. Vaishnaw confirmed that issues identified during the first rake's testing are being resolved in both the first and second trains.

He explained that whilst the modifications are relatively small, they are being treated with significant importance to ensure optimal passenger comfort levels.

“Changes are minor in nature, but we are treating them as major because we want to match the high standards of passenger comfort,” he said.

Highlighting the focus on passenger welfare and safety, he emphasised their commitment to avoiding shortcuts to develop a quality product for future generations.

According to the PTI report, BEML officials have confirmed receiving back the first prototype of Vande Bharat sleeper trains for modifications, following comprehensive testing and trials overseen by RDSO and the Commissioner of Railway Safety. The company is tasked with manufacturing 10 such trains.

"Since it is a prototype, it is very natural to test the train on all safety and comfort parameters. The first rake is back with us after intensive testing along with the suggested modifications," a BEML official said.

The Railway Ministry officially approved the introduction of 16-car Vande Bharat Sleeper trains on October 28, whilst recommending specific alterations for enhanced performance in the future.

The safety requirements include installing Arc Fault Detection Device for fire prevention, AC duct repositioning, CCTV fire-survival cable implementation and independent assessment of European fire safety (EN 45545) and crash resistance (EN 15227) standards, amongst other measures.

"Emergency alarm button and its indication sign board is found to be hidden behind the upper berth connector console and appear inaccessible to passengers for operation in emergency situations. This needs to be suitably relocated at an appropriate accessible location in the future production," said the October 28 letter.

The ministry sent an additional letter on October 28 to RDSO and all zonal railways highlighting concerns regarding the train's interior finishing and construction quality.

Vande Bharat Sleeper Train: Top Features

• The new Vande Bharat sleeper train has 16 coaches for passengers, including 11 AC 3 tier, 4 AC 2 tier, and one AC First class compartment.
• The Vande Bharat sleeper train will be a semi-high speed, self-propelled train set, capable of 160 kmph speed, and a testing speed of 180 kmph.
• The train incorporates advanced features such as specially designed night lighting, integrated announcement systems with visual displays, surveillance cameras, and modular kitchen units.
• Built following European railway standards, the Vande Bharat sleeper aims to offer superior comfort levels with well-appointed coaches and padded berths. The design includes improved accessibility to upper berths.
• Advanced bio-vacuum toilets, similar to those in aeroplanes, are installed throughout. The train accommodates disabled passengers and includes baby care facilities. AC First class sections offer shower facilities with hot water supply.
• The indigenous KAVACH anti-collision technology safeguards these trains. They incorporate regenerative braking systems to optimize energy consumption.
• The coaches feature automatic connecting doors between compartments. The gangways are fully sealed for a dust-free environment and temperature regulation.
• Passengers will have personal reading lights, power outlets, tables for refreshments. The doors open automatically at stoppages.
• A Centralised Coach Monitoring System manages amenities. Emergency communication links connect travellers to train operators. CCTV cameras monitor each coach.