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New Delhi: The wait for a world-class overnight travel experience in India is finally coming to an end. In a major announcement that has thrilled rail passengers, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed that the first-ever Vande Bharat Sleeper train is set to be launched in January 2026.
Adding to the excitement, the Minister revealed that the debut route for this high-tech train will connect Guwahati and Kolkata (Howrah/Kamakhya). This move is expected to transform travel between Assam and West Bengal, offering a blend of speed, luxury, and comfort.
Table of Contents
A New Era of Overnight Travel
For years, the Vande Bharat Express has been famous for its “Chair Car” version, perfect for day trips. However, the introduction of the Sleeper version marks a significant shift. Designed specifically for long-distance and overnight journeys, this train allows passengers to sleep comfortably while moving at semi-high speeds.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to flag off the inaugural run in the second half of January. Currently, two train sets are ready after successfully passing rigorous trial runs.
Key Route Details: Who Benefits?
The Guwahati-Kolkata route is one of the busiest in Eastern India. The new Vande Bharat Sleeper will bridge this gap faster than ever. The train is scheduled to benefit several districts across two states:
- Assam: Kamrup Metropolitan and Bongaigaon.
- West Bengal: Coochbehar, Jalpaiguri, Maldah, Murshidabad, Purba Bardhaman, Hooghly, and Howrah.
Ticket Fares: What Will It Cost?
Indian Railways has aimed to keep the pricing competitive while offering premium facilities. The estimated one-way fares for the Guwahati-Kolkata journey are:
- AC 3-Tier: ₹2,300
- AC 2-Tier: ₹3,000
- AC 1st Class: ₹3,600
Top Features of the Vande Bharat Sleeper
This isn’t just another train; it’s a “hotel on wheels.” Here are some of the standout features that make it special:
- High Speed and Stability: During trials on the Kota–Nagda section, the train hit a top speed of 180 kmph. A famous “water glass test” showed that even at such high speeds, a full glass of water didn’t spill, proving how smooth the ride is.
- Superior Comfort: The berths are extra-cushioned for better sleep. Moving to the upper berth is now easier thanks to a redesigned climbing system.
- Advanced Safety: The train is equipped with KAVACH, India’s indigenous anti-collision system. It also features fire-resistant materials and automatic doors.
- Modern Amenities: * Bio-vacuum toilets (similar to airplanes).
- Hot water showers in the 1st AC coach.
- Baby care areas and toilets designed for passengers with disabilities.
- Modular pantries for fresh meals.
- Smart Interiors: The cabins include personal reading lights, charging points, foldable snack tables, and soft ambient lighting to ensure a relaxing environment.
Manufacturing and Future Plans
The Vande Bharat Sleeper is a “Make in India” marvel. The current prototypes were built by BEML in collaboration with the Integral Coach Factory (ICF).
Minister Vaishnaw also shared a roadmap for the future. After the Guwahati-Kolkata launch, eight more sleeper trains will be introduced in the next six months. By the end of 2026, the government aims to have 12 Vande Bharat Sleeper trains running across India. In the long run, over 200 such trains are planned to replace older long-distance rakes.
Why This Matters
The launch of the Vande Bharat Sleeper on the Guwahati-Kolkata route is more than just a new train; it’s a boost for tourism and business in Northeast India. It reduces travel time significantly while providing a level of comfort previously only found in flights.
For travelers who prefer the charm of the tracks but want the luxury of a modern hotel, the Vande Bharat Sleeper is ready to deliver. Keep your bags packed—January is going to be a historic month for Indian Railways!
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