Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw today inspected the Vande Bharat sleeper coach at Bharat Earth Movers Limited’s (BEML) production facility in Bengaluru. The new train, designed for overnight journeys, is expected to be operational within the next three months.
During his visit, Vaishnaw announced that the Vande Bharat sleeper coach would undergo ten days of rigorous trials and tests before it is rolled out for passenger service. The train, which boasts a maximum speed of 160 kilometers per hour, is designed to cover distances ranging from 800 to 1,200 kilometers.
The Vande Bharat sleeper train will feature 16 coaches and is aimed at providing a comfortable and affordable travel option for the middle class. Its design includes several innovative features such as GFRP panels, a modular pantry, special berths and toilets for differently-abled passengers, and automatic exterior passenger doors.
Additional amenities include a shower with hot water in the 1st AC car, remotely operated fire barrier doors, a sensor-based interior, an odour-free toilet system, and integrated reading lights with USB charging provisions. The train also incorporates lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, with enhanced virus protection and improved oxygen levels inside the coaches.
Vaishnaw emphasized that the fares for the Vande Bharat sleeper coach would be comparable to those of the Rajdhani Express, making it an accessible option for many travelers. The series production of these trains is expected to commence in about 18 months, with two to three trains scheduled to roll out each month thereafter.
This development marks a significant step forward in India’s efforts to enhance its railway infrastructure and provide more comfortable travel options for its passengers.
Sources By Agencies