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Vande Bharat Sleeper train trial run: RDSO completes testing of second rake – what’s next?

Vande Bharat Sleeper train latest update: Developed by BEML using ICF technology, this new semi-high-speed sleeper train is expected to transform long-distance rail travel across India.

3 min readNov 17, 2025 02:52 PM IST

During the trials, the Vande Bharat Sleeper achieved a top speed of 180 kmph. (Image: Ministry of Railways)

Vande Bharat Sleeper train: The Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) has successfully completed the trial run of the second Vande Bharat Sleeper rake. Developed by BEML using ICF technology, this new semi-high-speed sleeper train is expected to transform long-distance rail travel across India.

Vande Bharat Sleeper train trial run

During the trials, RDSO carried out detailed Oscillation Trials and Emergency Braking Distance (EBD) tests at multiple speeds on the 16-coach Prototype Sleeper Rake-2 across three railway zones – North Central Railway, West Central Railway and Western Railway. A senior railway official confirmed the development to IndianExpress.com, stating, “RDSO has fully completed the trial run of the second Vande Bharat Sleeper rake.”

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Vande Bharat Sleeper train news, Vande Bharat Sleeper launch

With the trials now over, attention shifts to the next steps – including approvals and readiness for the train’s official launch.

Another senior railway official told IndianExpress.com that with the trial run of the second Vande Bharat Sleeper rake now complete, the train will be sent back to BEML for the necessary corrections and adjustments identified during testing.

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“It will be sent to BEML to carry out corrections identified during the trail run. Then it will be directed as per instructions of Railway Board,” the official told IndianExpress.com.

By running the train at a maximum speed of 180 kmph, the RDSO checked its technical efficiency, braking capability, stability, vibration, and reliability of the mechanical and electrical systems.

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Vande Bharat Sleeper second rake trial speed

During the trials, the Vande Bharat Sleeper achieved a top speed of 180 kmph. The testing began on the Mahoba–Khajuraho section of North Central Railway, followed by the Sawai Madhopur–Kota–Nagda stretch under West Central Railway and concluded on the Ahmedabad–Mumbai section of Western Railway.

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

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