PM Modi to flag off first Vande Bharat sleeper train from Guwahati to Kolkata
PTC News Desk: The first Vande Bharat Sleeper train will operate on the Guwahati–Kolkata route, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Thursday. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will soon flag off the service, which follows successful trial runs and is set to improve overnight travel in the region.
Vaishnaw said the train will benefit business travellers, families, students and tourists by offering a faster and more comfortable night journey between the two cities. The final high-speed trial of the indigenously built train was recently completed on the Kota–Nagda section, where it touched a speed of 180 kmph.
"The testing and certification of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train have been completed, and its first proposed route is Guwahati-Kolkata. Prime Minister Modi will flag off the inaugural service on this route in the coming days. This achievement marks a major milestone, as the Vande Bharat Sleeper will offer passengers world-class facilities, enhanced safety, and a modern travel experience for long-distance overnight journeys," he said.
The sleeper version will have 16 coaches — 11 AC three-tier, four AC two-tier and one First AC — with a total capacity of 823 passengers.
Fares have been fixed at around Rs 2,300 for 3AC (including meals), about Rs 3,000 for 2AC, and roughly Rs 3,600 for First AC.
The train will offer several modern features such as well-designed berths with better cushioning, automatic doors with vestibules, smoother rides with improved suspension, and reduced noise levels. Its interiors are spacious, with modern lighting and passenger-friendly amenities.
For safety, the train is equipped with the Kavach anti-collision system and an emergency talk-back facility. The coaches also include disinfectant technology to maintain hygiene, while the driver’s cabin is fitted with advanced control and safety systems. The train also features an aerodynamic design and automatic exterior doors.
- PTC NEWS
