Manufactured in Bengaluru
Bharat Earth Movers Ltd (BEML), located in Bengaluru, has manufactured India’s first semi-high-speed sleeper train, which is designed for long-distance travel.
Second rake dispatched
On Monday, the second rake of the Vande Bharat Sleeper was sent to the Indian Railways. However, unlike what was reported regarding the rake's movement, railway officials have stated that it is currently still at BEML in Bengaluru without any clearance to leave.
Currently at SMVT station
According to railway officials, the second rake arrived at SMVT railway station in Bengaluru on Monday morning. It is anticipated it will be at SMVT for another 2 to 3 days as inspection and procedural requirements are completed.
Designed for long-distance trips
The Vande Bharat Sleeper was developed for travel over longer distances, 800 km to 1,000 km. Additionally, the Vande Bharat Sleeper is a very fast option, offering reduced travel times compared to the conventional Mail and Express services available on overnight and long-distance routes.
Speed and Performance
Similar to the Chair Car Vande Bharat Trains, the Vande Bharat Sleeper’s maximum speed is 160 km/h. It is faster to get to speed and slow down allowing for less overall travel time on long-distance routes.
Sixteen-coach configuration
The rake comprises 16 coaches divided into three classes — third AC, second AC, and first AC. The layout mirrors existing premium AC sleeper trains, offering multiple travel options for passengers across income groups.
Northern Railway to operate
The first commercial service of Vande Bharat Sleeper will be operated by the Northern Railway zone. This zone covers major routes across Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir.
New Year rollout likely
Once all formalities are completed, the rake will be transferred to Northern Railway. Officials indicated that the train could be introduced as a New Year offering, with serious preparations already in progress.
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