Vande Bharat Sleeper Train: PM Modi Flags Off New Saffron-Coloured Vande Bharat Express; Sleeper Variant to Begin by July

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has flagged off another Vande Bharat Express, this time painted in a vibrant saffron hue, enhancing both its visual appeal and national pride. The newly launched train will operate between Patna and Gorakhpur, offering speed and modern facilities for passengers who prefer quicker, more comfortable rail journeys.

The Vande Bharat Express has quickly become a preferred mode of travel due to its reduced travel times and upgraded features. Building on this success, Indian Railways is now gearing up to introduce Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains, aiming to revolutionize long-distance overnight travel.

First Sleeper Vande Bharat to Roll Out by July-End

According to railway officials, the first Vande Bharat Sleeper train has completed its speed trials, and the Railway Board is finalizing its route and fare structure. The train is expected to be operational by the end of July 2025.

This is part of a larger plan to run 30 Vande Bharat Sleeper trains during the current financial year (2025–26). Of these, 10 trains are ready at the Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) facility in Bengaluru. Additional trains are being manufactured at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai. Both PSUs are jointly producing these advanced coaches.

Delhi to Howrah in Just 15 Hours

One of the first long-distance sleeper services is proposed between New Delhi and Howrah. Covering a 1,449 km stretch, the train is expected to complete the journey in under 15 hours, reaching a top speed of 160 km/h.

Coach Composition and Fare Structure

Each Vande Bharat Sleeper train will consist of 16 coaches, featuring modern interiors and advanced amenities:

11 AC 3-Tier coaches

4 AC 2-Tier coaches

1 AC First Class coach

Expected fare range:

AC 3-Tier: ₹3,000 approx.

AC 2-Tier: ₹4,000 approx.

AC First Class: ₹5,100 approx.

With the launch of the Vande Bharat Sleeper series, Indian Railways is set to redefine overnight travel, providing passengers with speed, comfort, and a world-class rail experience across major routes in the country.