Cancelling tickets for the upcoming Vande Bharat Sleeper trains is expected to become a costlier affair, as Indian Railways plans to impose steeper cancellation charges compared to conventional long-distance trains. The move is aimed at discouraging last-minute ticket cancellations and ensuring better utilisation of high-demand seats on premium services.
Officials said the Vande Bharat Sleeper service, designed for long-haul overnight travel with modern amenities, involves significantly higher operational and maintenance costs. As a result, stricter refund norms are being considered to protect revenue and maintain service efficiency.
Under the proposed framework, passengers cancelling tickets closer to the departure time may face higher deductions, similar to premium train categories such as Rajdhani and Shatabdi services. The policy is also expected to reduce speculative bookings and improve availability for genuine travellers.
The Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are part of Indian Railways’ broader push to modernise long-distance travel by offering faster journeys, enhanced comfort and improved onboard facilities, while balancing operational sustainability.
