Kolkata, 03 January (H.S.): India is set to roll out its first-ever Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, with West Bengal poised to play a central role in the landmark launch. According to railway sources, the new high-speed sleeper service will strengthen rail connectivity between Bengal and the northeastern states, offering faster travel, modern amenities and affordable fares.
The train is expected to originate from Howrah station and pass through Hooghly, East Burdwan, Murshidabad, Malda, Jalpaiguri and Cooch Behar, before entering Assam and connecting Bongaigaon and Kamrup Metropolitan district. The service is aimed at providing enhanced overnight travel options between Kolkata and Guwahati, a route that sees heavy passenger demand.
Railway officials said the Vande Bharat Sleeper has successfully cleared rigorous speed and safety trials. Recently, a high-speed “water test” conducted on the Kota–Nagda section demonstrated the train’s superior stability, with no spillage from a glass of water even at a speed of 180 kmph. The video of the test was shared by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on social media, highlighting the train’s advanced engineering.
Following the successful trials, the Railway Minister announced the launch of the Guwahati–Kolkata Vande Bharat Sleeper service. While the official timetable is yet to be released, fares are expected to remain within reach of middle-class passengers. Sources indicated that AC 3-tier fares may be around ₹2,300, AC 2-tier around ₹3,000, and First Class AC approximately ₹3,600.
The 16-coach fully air-conditioned train will feature 11 AC 3-tier coaches, 4 AC 2-tier coaches and 1 First Class AC coach, with a total passenger capacity of 823. Equipped with state-of-the-art safety and communication systems such as Kavach and emergency talk-back facilities, the train is designed to offer both comfort and security.
Describing the Vande Bharat Express as one of India’s premium train services that has already transformed rail travel, the Railway Minister said the sleeper version marks a new milestone by bringing indigenous high-speed technology to long-distance night journeys.
Sources further revealed that the train may be inaugurated by the Prime Minister within the next two weeks, with January 17 or 18 being considered as possible dates. The final schedule is expected to be confirmed once the Prime Minister’s availability is finalized.
With its launch, the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is expected to significantly cut travel time, improve passenger experience and deepen rail connectivity between eastern India and the Northeast.
Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh
