The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai is gearing up to roll out two additional 16-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper rakes by the end of March 2026, marking a significant expansion of India’s advanced train fleet.
Unlike earlier semi-high-speed Vande Bharat sets optimised for daytime travel, these sleeper versions are designed for long-distance overnight services, combining the performance and efficiency of the Vande Bharat platform with enhanced passenger comfort suited for overnight journeys. Each rake will feature modern interiors, improved seating and sleeping arrangements, onboard amenities and safety features aligned with Indian Railways’ vision for premium rail travel.
The development is part of a broader push to modernise India’s passenger train services while reducing travel times and improving convenience. With the success of earlier Vande Bharat models, the deployment of sleeper variants aims to serve routes where overnight travel is an essential part of passenger demand.
Production at ICF, a key unit responsible for manufacturing advanced rolling stock under the Make in India initiative, underscores domestic capabilities in rail design, engineering and large-scale production. The additional rakes will strengthen connectivity options on major corridors, providing travellers with efficient, comfortable and technologically upgraded alternatives to conventional trains.
The rollout of these rakes is expected to enhance service frequency and quality on long-distance routes, attract higher ridership and support Indian Railways’ broader goals of modernisation and passenger satisfaction.
