Indian Railways is gearing up to introduce the semi-high-speed Vande Bharat train’s sleeper version, with the first set scheduled to be dispatched from Bengaluru’s Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) on 20 September.
Bengaluru Central MP P C Mohan confirmed this update via social media and announced that the inaugural Vande Bharat Sleeper train is set to launch in December.
“India’s first Vande Bharat sleeper train will be dispatched from Bengaluru’s BEML plant by September 20 and is expected to be operational by December,” Mohan shared on X.
The sleeper coaches are being produced by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in collaboration with BEML.
Key Features of Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains
The Vande Bharat sleeper train will consist of 10 rakes with 16 cars each, operating at speeds of up to 160 kmph, and reaching 180 kmph during tests.
Each train will have 16 coaches, providing a total of 823 berths: 11 3AC coaches with 611 berths, 4 2AC coaches with 188 berths, and 1 1AC coach with 24 berths, reports Hindustan Times.
These new sleeper coaches will feature wider berths, enhanced interior lighting, and more spacious toilets compared to existing services.
Key features include reading lamps, charging outlets, snack tables, and mobile/magazine holders.
Safety is also emphasised, with the inclusion of the Kavach collision avoidance system, stainless steel car bodies, crash-worthy safety measures, GFRP interior panels, and adherence to EN 45545 fire safety standards.
Additionally, the trains will be equipped with automatic doors for enhanced convenience.