Indian Railways is stepping into the future of rail travel with the introduction of the Vande Bharat Sleeper trains, a new generation of high-speed trains designed for long and medium-distance travel. Currently, 10 Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are in the production phase, and the first prototype has already been created, which will soon undergo field trials. This marks a significant leap forward in the modernization of India’s railway network. Alongside the sleeper variants, the manufacturing of 200 Vande Bharat Sleeper rakes has been awarded to technology partners, ensuring a steady flow of these advanced trains in the coming years.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains: When will field trials take place?
The inaugural train has recently been sent from the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) for loaded trial runs. These trials are scheduled to take place in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, under the supervision of the Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO). The main goal of these trials is to assess critical factors such as the train’s stability, vibration levels, and overall dynamic performance when operating under different load conditions. This will ensure the train meets the necessary standards for safe and efficient passenger service.
When will Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains roll out?
The timeline for their rollout will depend on the successful completion of trial runs, which are crucial for validating their operational efficiency.
As of December 2024, a total of 136 Vande Bharat train services are actively running across the country, catering to short and medium-distance travel needs on the Broad Gauge electrified network. These trains, featuring Chair Cars, offer passengers a seamless and comfortable journey, and their popularity is evident, with occupancy rates surpassing 100% as of October 2024.
Indian Railways: Enhancing Accessibility and Technological Advancements
The government has introduced multiple initiatives as part of the ‘Sugamya Bharat Mission’ which is aimed at improving accessibility for passengers with disabilities. This includes the installation of ramps, Braille and tactile signages, low-height counters, and accessible parking at stations, ensuring that railway services are more accommodating.
Railways claims uptick in LHB coaches, escalators and lifts across stations
A notable achievement is the significant increase in the installation of escalators and lifts across stations. By November 2024, 1,512 escalators and 1,607 lifts were installed at 399 and 609 stations, respectively—an impressive surge compared to the previous decade, Ministry of Railways stated in a release. In addition to these infrastructure improvements, dedicated coaches with wider entrances, accessible washrooms, and designated spaces for wheelchair parking are available on most Mail/Express trains. Vande Bharat trains, in particular, are designed with automatic doors, Braille signage, and specialized spaces, making them a benchmark for accessible travel in India.
The release further stated that since 2018, only LHB (Linke Hofmann Busch) coaches have been produced, reflecting a significant upgrade in safety and comfort features. The number of LHB coaches manufactured has grown dramatically over the years, with over 36,000 units produced in the last decade—more than 16 times the number manufactured during the previous decade. These coaches are equipped with modern safety features, such as anti-climbing arrangements and air suspension systems, ensuring a smoother and safer travel experience for passengers.