ICF to Manufacture 50 Rakes of 24-Car Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains
The Chennai-based Integral Coach Factory (ICF) has announced a major manufacturing initiative to produce 50 rakes of 24-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper trains. This development was confirmed by General Manager U Subba Rao during the 77th Republic Day celebrations at the M Arun Sports Complex (ICF Stadium) in Chennai. The announcement marks a significant expansion of India's semi-high-speed rail capabilities, following the successful introduction of the first Vande Bharat Sleeper train earlier this year.
Manufacturing Details and Project Progress
According to official statements, the manufacturing of these 24-car Vande Bharat Sleeper rakes is already progressing well. MG Shanker, Public Relations Officer (PRO) at ICF, specifically confirmed to IndianExpress.com that "We will be manufacturing 50 rakes of Vande Bharat Sleeper trains." This production scale represents a substantial commitment to enhancing India's railway infrastructure and passenger experience.
The Vande Bharat Sleeper train, which was designed by ICF and manufactured at BEML, offers world-class comfort with advanced safety systems and modern passenger amenities. General Manager Rao emphasized that major projects including the 24-car Vande Bharat Sleeper rake and Amrit Bharat Version 3.0 are advancing according to schedule.
Recent Launch and Operational Details
The country's first Vande Bharat Sleeper train was inaugurated on January 17, 2026, with commercial operations commencing on January 22. This initial service operates between Howrah and Kamakhya, featuring:
- 16 coaches in total configuration
- 11 Third AC coaches
- 4 Second AC coaches
- 1 First AC coach
- Passenger capacity of 823 travelers
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently indicated that these sleeper trains are designed for overnight journeys covering distances of approximately 1,500 kilometers. "Passengers can board the train in the evening and reach their destination the next morning," he explained, highlighting the convenience factor for long-distance travelers.
Advanced Features and Passenger Benefits
The Vande Bharat Sleeper trains incorporate numerous technological advancements and passenger-centric features:
- Semi-high-speed capability with design speeds up to 180 kmph
- Ergonomically designed berths with improved cushioning
- Automatic doors with vestibules for smooth passenger movement
- Enhanced ride comfort through superior suspension systems
- Noise reduction technology for quieter travel
- Kavach train protection system and emergency talk-back system
- Disinfectant technology to maintain high sanitation standards
- Advanced driver cab with modern controls and safety systems
- Aerodynamic exterior design with automatic exterior passenger doors
The newly introduced service between Howrah and Kamakhya has already demonstrated tangible benefits, reducing travel time while improving regional connectivity in Eastern India. The national transporter plans to roll out more Vande Bharat Sleeper trains in the coming months as manufacturing accelerates at ICF facilities.
Broader Railway Manufacturing Initiatives
This announcement comes alongside other significant manufacturing projects at ICF, including plans to produce two rakes of Amrit Bharat Express 3.0 trains by the end of FY26 and 15-car EMU trains for Mumbai's suburban railway network. The coordinated approach to railway manufacturing reflects India's comprehensive strategy to modernize its rail infrastructure while boosting domestic industrial capabilities.
The production of 50 rakes of 24-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper trains represents a major step forward in India's railway modernization efforts, promising enhanced travel experiences, improved connectivity between cities, and reduced journey times for millions of passengers across the country.
