Plans afoot to manufacture bigger Vande Bharat Sleeper train
By Arun Kumar Das
New Delhi, Jan 29 (BVI): After the launch of first Vande Bharat Sleeper train between Howrah in West Bengal and Guwahati in Assam, Indian Railways is now working on manufacturing a similar but bigger locomotive at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) under the Make-in-India programme.
The new train of 24 coaches, against the existing 16 coaches, is currently at the design stage, and the prototype rake is targeted for rollout by the end of 2026, officials said.
The 24-coach formation is planned to provide a total passenger capacity of 1,224 berths, a significant increase over the 823 berths available in the existing 16-coach configuration.
This means each 24-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper will add 401 additional berths, enabling Indian Railways to cater to high-demand corridors more effectively.
The proposed coach composition of the 24-car Vande Bharat Sleeper will include AC 3-Tier Coaches – 17, AC 2-Tier Coaches – 5, AC First Class Coach – 1 and one AC Pantry Car.
A key planning feature of the 24-coach version is the provision of a dedicated full-fledged AC Pantry Car, which will enhance catering services for passengers during long journeys.
In addition, mini-pantry spaces and linen storage areas are being planned across coaches to ensure efficient onboard service management.
Passenger amenities will include ergonomically designed berths, integrated reading lights, mobile and laptop charging points, Wi-Fi enabled passenger information and infotainment systems, vacuum-assisted toilets, improved luggage spaces and modern interior fittings.
Special provisions for Divyangjan passengers, including accessible toilets and ramps, are also part of the design planning.
The trainset is being planned with advanced propulsion and control systems, regenerative braking for energy efficiency, and a crashworthy stainless-steel car body meeting contemporary safety standards.
Fire safety measures in line with international norms, CCTV surveillance, intelligent diagnostics and the integration of Kavach (Train Collision Avoidance System) are proposed to further strengthen operational safety.
With air-spring suspension, disc brakes, noise insulation and modern train management systems, the train is designed to ensure a smooth, quiet and comfortable ride suited for overnight travel, with a maximum operational speed of 160 kmph.
Energy-efficient features such as regenerative braking, LED lighting and vacuum bio-toilets underline Indian Railways’ commitment to sustainable transportation.
Predictive maintenance systems and remote condition monitoring are also being incorporated in the design to ensure higher reliability and improved lifecycle performance. (BVI)
