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

Vande Bharat Sleeper train launch: The first service will operate between Kolkata and Guwahati, improving rail connectivity between East India and the Northeast.

3 min readJan 1, 2026 05:51 PM IST

In a statement, the national transporter said: "The first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train marks a new era in Indian Railways, combining speed, comfort, and modern amenities for overnight travel." (Image: Ministry of Railways)

Vande Bharat Sleeper trains: As the Ministry of Railways prepares to roll out the much-awaited Vande Bharat Sleeper train this month, demand for the new semi-high-speed service is expected to rise. Keeping this in mind, the national transporter has already ramped up the production of the Vande Bharat Sleeper trains. The first service will operate between Kolkata and Guwahati, improving rail connectivity between East India and the Northeast.

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Vande Bharat Sleeper train distance

On Thursday, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that the Vande Bharat Sleeper, the longer variant of Vande Bharat series will cover a distance of 1000 to 1500 km. “Vande Bharat Sleeper train will cover a distance of about 1000 to 1500 km,” he said.

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He also added that the introduction of Vande Bharat Sleeper train represents a significant milestone for Indian Railways, the nation, and its rail passengers. “2026 will be a year of major reforms for Indian Railways, with several passenger-centric initiatives set to be introduced,” he said.

Vande Bharat Sleeper train production

The minister further said that the production of Vande Bharat Sleeper trains has been ramped up, adding that 12 such trains are slated to be introduced by December 2026. “12 Vande Bharat Sleeper trains – comprising six rakes on each side – will be rolled out by the end of 2026,” he said.

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Vande Bharat Sleeper train features: 10 key things you need to know

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

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