Indian Railways has announced the launch of the country’s first Vande Bharat sleeper train, scheduled to begin operations on January 17. The fully air-conditioned train will operate between Guwahati in Assam and Howrah in West Bengal and will be virtually flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
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Designed for long-distance overnight journeys, the semi-high-speed train is capable of reaching speeds of up to 180 kmph and is expected to reduce travel time by approximately three hours compared to existing express trains on the route.
The service will stop at key stations including Bandel, Katwa, New Farakka, Malda Town, New Jalpaiguri, New Coochbehar, and New Bongaigaon.
Fare Structure
Fares for the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express are distance-based and depend on the class of travel:
- 3AC: ₹2.4 per km
- 2AC: ₹3.1 per km
- 1AC: ₹3.8 per km
For journeys exceeding 1,000 kilometres, the approximate fares are:
- 3AC: ₹2,300
- 2AC: ₹3,000
- 1AC: ₹3,600
The train consists of 16 fully air-conditioned coaches and can accommodate up to 823 passengers. It is equipped with advanced safety and security features, including the KAVACH anti-collision system, CCTV surveillance, and emergency talk-back units for direct communication with the locomotive.
Passenger comfort has been a key focus in the design. The train features aircraft-style bio-vacuum toilets, comfortable cushioned berths, redesigned ladders for easier access to upper berths, and automatic sliding doors between coaches. Additional amenities include noise-reduction technology, superior suspension for a smoother ride, individual reading lights, and USB charging points.
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Express will not allow RAC or waitlisted tickets. Special quotas will be available for women, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and duty pass holders.
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