Premium

All states, including Kerala, to get Vande Bharat Sleeper trains: Ashwini Vaishnaw

Vande Bharat Sleeper latest update: The first Vande Bharat Sleeper train service will operate between Kolkata (Howrah) and Guwahati, improving rail connectivity between East India and the Northeast.

3 min readUpdated: Jan 3, 2026 07:13 PM IST

Vande Bharat Sleeper trains: Howrah-Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper train to commence inaugural run soon (Image: Ministry of Railways)

Vande Bharat Sleeper trains route, Vande Bharat Sleeper trains update: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Saturday said Vande Bharat Sleeper trains will be introduced across all states, including Kerala. He made the comments during a press briefing at New Delhi railway station after inspecting the Howrah–Guwahati–Howrah Vande Bharat Sleeper rake, which is set to be launched this month.

“All states including Kerala will get Vande Bharat trains. Currently, Vande Bharat Chair car version is operational in the state. We have ramped up the production,” Vaishnaw said.

Interior photos of Howrah-Guwahati-Howrah Vande Bharat Sleeper train (Image: Bobins Abraham)

Also Read | In Photos | First look of Howrah-Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper train

Vande Bharat Sleeper train launch

The Union minister further said that the Vande Bharat Sleeper train will be introduced for overnight journeys of around 1,500 km. “Passengers can board the train in the evening and reach their destination the next morning,” he said.

Also Read | How much does a Vande Bharat Sleeper train coach cost?

The Railway Minister also said that every aspect of passenger convenience –including comfort and safety – has been taken into account while designing. The train is equipped with CCTV cameras, the Kavach safety system, and other modern features.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw at New Delhi railway station (Image: Bobins Abraham)

“Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off the Kolkata (Howrah)–Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper train. The train will depart from both ends in the evening and reach its destination the following morning. By the end of this year, 10 more Vande Bharat Sleeper trains (five pairs) will be added to the Indian Railways fleet, taking the total number to 12, with production set to be rapidly ramped up,” the minister said.

Also Read | Vande Bharat Sleeper trains to cover 1,000–1,500 km routes; 12 trains set for launch in 2026

Vande Bharat Sleeper train features

Total coaches: 16 (11 coaches 3 Tier; 4 coaches 2 Tier; 1 coach 1AC)
Passenger capacity: 823 (3T: 611 + 2T:188 + 1st AC:24)
Semi-high-speed train with design speed up to 180 kmph
Ergonomically designed berths with improved cushioning
Automatic doors with vestibules for smooth movement
Enhanced ride comfort with superior suspension and noise reduction
Kavach & Emergency talk-back system
Disinfectent technology to maintain high sanitation
Driver cab with advanced controls and safety systems
Aerodynamic exterior looks & Automatic exterior passenger doors

Anish Mondal

Anish Mondal is a journalist with over nine years of experience covering the railways and roadways. Currently a member of the Indianexpress.com editorial team, Anish specializes in high-impact sectors. Professional Journey Anish began his career at the public broadcaster Rajya Sabha Television (now Sansad TV), where he developed a foundational understanding of legislative processes and national governance. In 2018, he transitioned to digital financial journalism at FinancialExpress.com, spending nearly six years refining his expertise in market trends and corporate reporting. Before joining The Indian Express in 2025, he served as a key contributor at ETNowNews.com. Education & Expertise Anish’s reporting is backed by a rigorous academic background in communication and the humanities: Master of Journalism and Mass Communication (MJMC) – Apeejay Stya University Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Production (PGTVRJP) – Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication Bachelor of Arts (English Honours) – University of Calcutta Areas of Coverage Connectivity: Detailed reporting on the expansion of Indian Railways and National Highway networks. ... Read More

Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram

Loading Taboola...