The first Vande Bharat Sleeper train will run on the Guwahati–Kolkata route, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Thursday, adding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off the service in the coming days. The significant launch comes after a series of successful trials and is expected to enhance overnight travel options in the region.
Addressing a press conference, Vaishnaw said the new service is anticipated to benefit not only business travellers but also families, students, and tourists seeking a faster and more reliable overnight journey between the two major cities.
“The testing and certification of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train have been completed, and its first proposed route is Guwahati-Kolkata. Prime Minister Modi will flag off the inaugural service on this route in the coming days. This achievement marks a major milestone, as the Vande Bharat Sleeper will offer passengers world-class facilities, enhanced safety, and a modern travel experience for long-distance overnight journeys,” he said.
#WATCH | Delhi: Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw says, “The complete testing and certification of the Vande Bharat sleeper train has been completed. Its first route is proposed to be Guwahati–Kolkata. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off the first Vande Bharat sleeper pic.twitter.com/p2tKGBDRD8
— ANI (@ANI) January 1, 2026
The final high-speed trial of the indigenously built Vande Bharat sleeper train was recently completed on the Kota-Nagda section. During the trial, the train reached a speed of 180 kmph.
The train will feature a total of 16 coaches, including 11 three-tier AC coaches, 4 two-tier AC coaches, and 1 first AC coach. The train will have a total passenger capacity of 823 — 611 in 3AC, 188 in 2AC, and 24 in 1AC.
Fares for this service have been announced: the 3AC fare will be approximately Rs 2,300, including food. The fare for 2AC is expected to be around Rs 3,000, while First AC will cost about Rs 3,600.
Passengers will benefit from several upgraded features, such as ergonomically designed berths with improved cushioning, automatic doors with vestibules, and enhanced ride comfort due to superior suspension and noise reduction measures.
The train’s design emphasises passenger safety and comfort throughout the journey. Spacious interiors, modern lighting, and user-friendly amenities are expected to set a new benchmark for overnight train travel in India.
The Vande Bharat sleeper is also equipped with the Kavach anti-collision system and an emergency talk-back system for added safety.
Additionally, the coaches include disinfectant technology to maintain high standards of sanitation, and the driver cab features advanced controls and safety systems.
The train also boasts an aerodynamic exterior and automatic exterior passenger doors.
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Published By:
Karishma Saurabh Kalita
Published On:
Jan 1, 2026
