PM Modi will launch India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Class train on the Kolkata to Guwahati route in the coming days, according to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
The launch is expected to happen within the next 15 to 20 days, possibly on January 18 or 19. The testing and certification of the new train have been completed. The exact date will be announced in the next two to three days.
Vande Bharat sleeper train launch on Howrah-Guwahati Route
The fare for 3rd AC is expected to be around Rs 2,300, which includes meals. The price for 2nd AC will be about Rs 3,000, and 1st AC will be roughly Rs 3,600.
The fares are set to be significantly lower than air travel. A flight from Guwahati to Howrah costs around Rs 6,000 to 8,000. In Vande Bharat, the 3rd AC fare will be around Rs 2,300 with food, 2nd AC about Rs 3,000, and 1st AC around Rs 3,600. The fares aim to be accessible for the middle class,” Vaishnaw said.
Vaishnaw described features of the new train. The Vande Bharat Sleeper includes modern safety systems, improved suspension, energy-efficient traction, and a more aerodynamic design. It also offers upgraded passenger amenities to make long-distance travel more comfortable and reliable.
Design, trials, and expansion plans
According to the railways minister, the Vande Bharat Sleeper train has been specifically designed for long-distance journeys over 1,000 kilometres.
The 16-coach sleeper setup includes modern passenger features such as comfortable berths, advanced suspension, automatic doors, improved toilets, fire detection systems, CCTV surveillance, digital passenger displays, and energy-efficient equipment.
The train is equipped with multiple safety upgrades. These include the KAVACH collision prevention system, strengthened couplers, fire barrier doors, aerosol-based fire suppression, regenerative braking, sealed gangways, emergency communication units, and special facilities for passengers with disabilities.
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