In a remarkable achievement, the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train has set a new record by reaching a maximum speed of 180 km per hour during a speed trial conducted in the Kota Division of West Central Railway. The trial was carried out on the Rohal Khurd–Indragarh–Kota section, covering a distance of 100 kilometers.
Speed Trial Success
The Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) team from Lucknow conducted the speed trials starting on November 2, testing the second version (16-coach set) of the Vande Bharat Sleeper rake. The trial confirmed the train’s mechanical and structural stability under different operational conditions.
According to a senior railway official, the train reached 180 km/h with a load of 908 tonnes last week, and the empty rake (weighing 800 tonnes) achieved the same speed on Monday, validating the consistency and performance of the new design.
A Milestone in Indian Railways’ Self-Reliance Journey
The tests aimed to evaluate high-speed stability, safety, and overall operational performance, marking a significant milestone in India’s efforts towards technological self-reliance in the rail sector. Officials described the achievement as a reflection of the success of the ‘Make in India’ initiative, strengthening India’s position in global railway innovation and competitiveness.
Vande Bharat’s Growing Popularity
The Vande Bharat Express continues to gain popularity among passengers for its comfort, speed, and modern features. The introduction of the sleeper version is expected to revolutionize long-distance overnight travel across India. Nearly every state now operates Vande Bharat trains, and with this new high-speed sleeper variant, Indian Railways is preparing to offer faster, safer, and more comfortable travel options to passengers nationwide.
