PM Modi Launches India's First Vande Bharat Sleeper Train
Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially flagged off the inaugural Vande Bharat sleeper train today from Malda Town in West Bengal. This marks a significant milestone for Indian Railways, introducing a new era of premium overnight travel.
Connecting West Bengal and Assam
The train will operate between Howrah in West Bengal and Kamakhya in Guwahati, Assam. This all air-conditioned service aims to make overnight journeys faster and more comfortable for passengers across this important route.
Train Schedule and Stops
Train number 27575 will depart from Howrah at 6:20 PM, reaching Kamakhya at 8:20 AM the next day. The journey takes just 14 hours, making it the fastest train on this route. The return service, train number 27576, will leave Howrah at 6:15 PM and arrive in Kamakhya at 8:15 AM.
The train will stop at multiple stations including:
- Bandel Junction
- Nabadwip Dham
- Katwa Junction
- Azimganj
- New Farakka Junction
- Malda Town (10-minute stop)
- New Jalpaiguri (10-minute stop)
- New Cooch Behar
- New Bongaigaon
- Rangiya
Most stops will be for just 2 minutes, with longer halts at key stations. The train will operate six days a week, with no service from Kamakhya on Wednesdays and no service from Howrah on Thursdays.
Coach Configuration and Capacity
The Vande Bharat sleeper train consists of 16 air-conditioned coaches:
- 11 AC-3 tier coaches
- 4 AC-2 tier coaches
- 1 First AC coach
The train has a total passenger capacity of 823 people.
Ticket Pricing Structure
Fares vary by class and destination:
From Howrah to Guwahati:
- AC-3 tier: Rs 2,299 (excluding 5% GST)
- AC-2 tier: Rs 2,970
- First AC: Rs 3,640
From Howrah to New Jalpaiguri:
- AC-3 tier: Rs 1,334
- AC-2 tier: Rs 1,724
- First AC: Rs 2,113
From Howrah to Malda Town:
- AC-3 tier: Rs 960
- AC-2 tier: Rs 1,240
- First AC: Rs 1,520
Fares from Kamakhya to Malda Town range from Rs 1,522 to Rs 2,409 depending on class, while Kamakhya to New Jalpaiguri tickets cost between Rs 962 and Rs 1,524.
Advanced Features and Amenities
The Vande Bharat sleeper train incorporates numerous advanced features designed for passenger comfort and safety:
Speed and Performance:
The train has been designed for a top speed of 180 kmph and successfully tested at that speed. The maximum permissible operating speed is 160 kmph, though actual speeds will depend on route conditions.
Safety Systems:
The train features the indigenous KAVACH anti-collision system for enhanced safety. Regenerative braking technology improves energy efficiency, similar to existing Vande Bharat chair car trains.
Passenger Comfort:
Coaches include well-padded berths with improved access to upper berths. The train offers gentle night-time lighting, integrated passenger information systems, and CCTV monitoring throughout.
Sanitation Facilities:
Aircraft-style bio-vacuum toilets are installed, including specially designed amenities for persons with disabilities. Baby care facilities and hot-water shower units are available in the first-class coach.
Additional Features:
- Sealed gangways and automatic doors between coaches
- Individual reading lamps and charging points
- Foldable snack tables
- GFRP panel interiors
- Automatic door operation at stations
- Centralised coach monitoring system
- Emergency communication to locomotive pilot
The train's aerodynamic profile reduces air resistance, ensuring a smooth ride even at higher speeds.
Regional Cuisine on Board
Passengers will enjoy meals reflecting local culinary traditions. Trains originating from Guwahati will serve authentic Assamese dishes, while services starting from Kolkata will feature traditional Bengali food. This cultural touch aims to make overnight travel more enjoyable and memorable.
The launch of the Vande Bharat sleeper train represents a major step forward for Indian Railways, offering passengers a premium overnight travel experience with modern amenities and efficient service.
