Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently took to social media to provide travelers with a glimpse of the forthcoming Vande Bharat sleeper trains and what they can expect. These exciting additions to India’s railway network are expected to make their debut in early 2024, offering an alternative to the renowned Rajdhani trains.
Revolutionary Collaborations:
These sleeper trains are the result of collaborative efforts between Indian Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) and Russia’s TMH Group, which secured the contract to supply 120 out of the 200 new Vande Bharat sleeper trains. The remaining 80 trains will be manufactured by a consortium consisting of Titagarh Wagons and BHEL.
A New Travel Experience:
The sneak peek pictures shared by the Railway Minister showcase the modern features of these upcoming sleeper trains. Notably, passengers can expect enhanced lighting, improved suspension for smoother rides, upgraded interiors, and more convenient staircases for accessing upper berths. However, further details regarding these features are still being discussed and refined.
Ample Berths and Amenities:
The first iteration of these sleeper trains is set to provide a total of 857 berths per coach, with the majority (823) reserved for passengers and the remaining 34 allocated for staff members. Each coach will feature three toilets and a mini pantry, ensuring a comfortable journey that rivals the experience of traveling on a Rajdhani train.
A Step Towards Self-Reliance:
The Vande Bharat Express trains are a significant milestone in India’s efforts to boost indigenous train manufacturing. The first Vande Bharat Express was inaugurated on February 15, 2019, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the nation currently boasts a fleet of 33 of these high-speed trains.
In conclusion, the unveiling of the Vande Bharat sleeper trains promises to provide passengers with an upgraded and comfortable travel experience. With enhanced amenities and a focus on self-reliance in train manufacturing, these trains mark a significant step forward for India’s railway network. Travelers can look forward to experiencing these innovations in early 2024.
